Bidding (Bowling) for Rhinos

Bowling for Rhinos is an annual fundraiser hosted by over 80 chapters of the American Association of Zoo Keepers. BFR began in 1990 and is the signature event for AAZK. Over $8.2 million has been raised since this event began, and 100% of the proceeds go to support in situ programs focused on community education, protection, population management, and habitat conservation for rhinos and other species that share their habitats in Africa and Asia. The funds raised go to three conservation organizations: the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, International Rhino Foundation, and Action for Cheetahs in Kenya.

The Lincoln Park AAZK Chapter has always had an abundance of amazing supporters over the years, and that is one of the reasons we are the 8th highest fundraising chapter for Bowling for Rhinos, having raised over $220,000 since 1990. With this year being the 30th anniversary of BFR, we had high hopes to make this our biggest and best event yet. But being faced with the challenges of a global pandemic has forced us to cancel our usual in-person bowling fundraiser. However this event is so important to us, and to conservation, that we did not want to miss our opportunity to continue to provide support to the 3 amazing organizations that so desperately need our help. So instead of the raffles and silent auction we usually have at Bowling for Rhinos, we have decided to hold a virtual auction where anyone can bid on any of the awesome items from the comfort of their own home.

Rhinos and other endangered species need our help now more than ever. The 5 rhino species are on the brink of extinction, mainly due to poaching. At the start of the 20th century there were over 500,000 of these gentle giants, and today there are less than 30,000. 95% of the world’s rhino population has been lost in the last 40 years. And now, with the whole world in the midst of a pandemic, evidence has come to light that there has been a surge in poaching around the world. Without eco-tourism and with travel of local community members being limited, wildlife is now an easier target for poachers. Sadly, a significant portion of the poaching is attributed to people needing to feed their families as sources of income have dried up due to the pandemic. But rhinos are not the only species affected, nor is poaching the only threat. Elephants, tigers, orangutans, and many other species that share rhino habitat in Africa and Asia are hanging on by a thread due to poaching, habitat destruction, human-wildlife conflict, and other threats. Bowling for Rhinos is our chance to make an impact in ensuring these species' survival.

If none of the items in our auction catch your eye, you can still show your support by making a donation here
https://charity.gofundme.com/o/en/campaign/lincolnparkbfr2020

In addition to this online auction, you can support our 2020 Bowling for Rhinos event by purchasing a t-shirt featuring one of Lincoln Park Zoo's beloved rhinos. The shirt link will be available here once the shirts go on sale.

Lincoln Park AAZK is a Chicago area chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers. Our chapter was chartered in 1969, making us one of the oldest.

Lincoln Park AAZK Mission Statement: Dedicated to raising awareness for conservation and cultivating an appreciation for the animal care profession.

Lincoln Park AAZK is committed to professional development in the animal care field as well as supporting worthwhile conservation efforts. Our chapter hosts several annual fundraisers which help us foster the professional growth of our members by assisting with the costs to send them to conferences, classes and workshops pertaining to the animal care field. We also hold several events throughout the year to generate money and awareness for conservation. By supporting both local and global organizations, Lincoln Park AAZK is committed to protecting endangered habitats as well as the wild counterparts of the animals in our care.