Uncle Pennybags

My personal dislike for the book Gorilla Tactics aside, it did lead me to one conclusion.  Fundraising is an extremely important job in zoos and aquariums, as it is for any nonprofit.  It was the potential to completely change how your facility is able to operate - on a shoestring budget, constantly having to cut corners and make hard choices, or being able to grow, thrive, and expand your mission.  

In some places I've worked at, there's been a major disconnect between the fundraisers and the frontline staff.  Sometimes the former had ideas that they tried pushing onto the latter that were contrary to the ethics or values of the animal care staff (i.e., asking about doing paid photo ops with monkeys).  Sometimes the keepers were too hostile the fundraisers, not seeing the real value in their work, or thinking that the money that they raised was wasted on frivolous things that didn't relate to them, like vanity projects or bonuses for higher ups.  Some feel that the intrusion of any issues pertaining to money - fundraising galas, paid encounters, appeals - cheapens the idealistic world of animal care.  The most successful zoo fundraising I've seen has been when there's successful support and mutual respect between the two sides of the staff.

Keepers should understand the reality that building and maintaining a successful facility needs money, and there's nothing inherently wrong about trying to get it.  Fundraisers should appreciate that the messaging of the zoo and the welfare of the animals can never be compromised in the pursuance of funds.  Ideally, and decisions about fundraising should be a discussion between the two.  

The best way to build this relationship of trust is to invite your fundraising people into your department.  Let them get an understanding of the animals, the programs, and the staff.  It will help them understand what animals can and can't interact with folks, or why a loud, late-night gala with music and bright lights might be upsetting to some species.  Fundraisers, in contrast, might be able to look through the zoo with fresh eyes after learning more and better understand how to promote the zoo, its animals, and its staff in order to build donor support.