Point Defiance AAZK Bowling for Rhinos Fundraiser

Point Defiance AAZK is a chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers. Each year our chapter, as well as other chapters across North America, work together for the conservation of rhinos and all creatures that share their habitats by holding Bowling for Rhinos events. These events also benefit animals such as cheetahs, zebras, and giraffes in Africa as well as tigers, orangutans, and elephants in Asia. In the past, rhinos were diverse and widespread. Today only 5 species of these majestic creatures survive and all are endangered. In addition, when we support rhino conservation we are also supporting the preservation of their habitats.

Bowling for Rhinos is a cause that is near and dear to many of us at Point Defiance AAZK. Numerous members have had the opportunity to visit Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Kenya, one of the primary beneficiaries of BFR monies. Lewa's conservation work is groundbreaking. In addition to providing a home for rhinos (as well as elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, and a host of other endangered species) Lewa also prides itself on being a community conservancy. They integrate the surrounding community into their conservation work by supporting local schools, operating a medical clinic, and funding water projects. This community approach has led to Lewa boasting one of the lowest rates of illegal rhino poaching anywhere, and is rightly being emulated across Africa and around the world!

Rhinos have lived on earth for over 50 million years. Extinction is forever, but endangered means there is still time. This is where Bowling for Rhinos, with support from all of us, can and does help, as demonstrated by Lewa's success. Since 1990 AAZK chapters have raised over $8.4 million for rhino conservation! Thanks to our wonderful supporters, Point Defiance AAZK has raised over $136,000!

Point Defiance AAZK has been holding Bowling for Rhinos events since 1990. In addition to our online auction, we hold an in-person event every year which we call "Rowdy for Rhinos". This year that event will be held on Thursday August 24 at 7 Seas Brewery, a family-friendly establishment in Tacoma, WA, from 5PM - 9PM. If you are in the area, come and hang out with friends and have a great time raising money for rhino conservation!

The American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) is a non-profit 501(c)3 association. The mission of AAZK is to advance excellence in the animal care profession, foster effective communication beneficial to animal care, support deserving conservation projects, and promote the preservation of our natural resources and animal life.

The Point Defiance Chapter of AAZK is a volunteer organization comprised of employees, interns, volunteers, and supporters of Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, an AZA- accredited facility located in the heart of Point Defiance Park in the vibrant city of Tacoma, Washington.

Funds raised by our organization are used for deserving conservation projects, both locally and globally, and for the professional development of our members.

We are:

Working together for conservation...

Everything else is irrELEPHANT!