Living Desert Zoo and Gardens Receives Major Grant, Paving Way for New Exhibits and Event Center

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens has received a new grant that zoo officials say will open the door for several exciting initiatives. The funding, provided through a charitable gift annuity by the Inland Empire Community Foundation, is expected to directly benefit both zoo operations and future expansion projects. The zoo will use the grant to help construct a new event center and enhance animal habitats, allowing both guests and animals to benefit from improved facilities.

“This is a major step forward,” said Jeffrey Petrovic, a representative of the zoo. The zoo has over 600 animals, and it costs around $82,000 every day to keep the zoo running. Most of that comes from ticket sales and donations says Living Desert officials.

Unlike many other zoos that are publicly funded, the Living Desert is privately run. This means it receives no ongoing financial support from the city, county, or state.

“Every dollar we receive—from individuals, families, and foundations—makes a critical difference,” Petrovic added. “Gifts from supporters like Sherman Lady Smith and others in the community are what allow us to grow and improve.”

The zoo says the grant will help them move forward with their mission to connect people with wildlife and nature while enhancing the visitor experience with new and exciting attractions.

As the Living Desert looks to the future, this grant is expected to play a key role in shaping the next phase of its development, ensuring that both the animals and the people who come to see them continue to have a world-class experience.