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The Zoo Intern Program (ZIP), generously endowed by the Malott Family Foundation, is an eight-week summer internship program for underserved Chicago high school students. Each spring 10–20 students between the ages of 15–18 are given the opportunity to work as interpreters on zoo grounds. Interns receive five days of training from zoo staff and scientists and then serve seven weeks as paid zoo interpreters. During training, interns learn effective informal education techniques, public- speaking and customer-service skills, and information about animal science and conservation. They then use these skills to interact with guests at interpretation carts containing hands-on, animal-related materials. Throughout their experience, interns interact with researchers and animal-care staff in behind-the-scenes tours and informal presentations. For many interns, these experiences provide a foundation for future environmental and community-building efforts. In addition to support from the Malott Family Foundation, major grants have also been provided by the American Express Company, the Helen Brach Foundation, the Hearst Foundation Inc., the Oscar G. & Elsa S. Mayer Foundation and UBS Warburg.
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2001 North Clark Street · Chicago, IL 60614 · 312-742-2000
Lincoln Park Zoo is open 365 days a year and is FREE every day!
