Since 1868, Lincoln Park Zoo has introduced generations of families to the majesty of silverback gorillas, the grace of trumpeter swans and the playfulness of diving penguins. We are proud to be one of the few remaining free zoos in the country. You can help preserve these wonders for future generations by making a planned gift to Lincoln Park Zoo.

Planned gifts can enable you to donate more to the zoo than you might have thought possible while also helping you achieve financial goals for yourself or your family. The following giving options can help you make a difference at Lincoln Park Zoo.

For more information on planned giving options, please contact Marilyn Shaffer, director of Planned Giving, at 312-742-2167 or mschaffer@lpzoo.org. You can also request more planned giving information through our online form.

Bequest by Will or in Trust
The most common planned gift—designate a portion of your estate to Lincoln Park Zoo to help preserve lions’ roars and conservation programs at home and abroad. Click here for example language.

Charitable Gift Annuity
Donors transfer appreciated stock, cash or other property to the zoo in exchange for a lifetime annuity payment. Charitable gift annuities provide you income for life and help ensure the zoo’s future as well.

Charitable Remainder Trust
A remainder trust pays a fixed-percentage annuity to one or more individuals for an established period of time, after which the assets are transferred to Lincoln Park Zoo. Your gift will help keep the zoo free and open to all.

Charitable Lead Trust
A charitable lead trust pays a fixed-percentage annuity to Lincoln Park Zoo for an established period of ime, after which the assets are transferred back to the donor or their heirs. The animals benefit, as does your family.

Life Estate
You can donate your home to Lincoln Park Zoo and continue to live in it for the rest of your life. Your home will help big cats and great apes enjoy comfortable homes of their own.

Life Insurance
By naming Lincoln Park Zoo as a beneficiary in your life insurance program, you can enable future generations to enjoy the wonders of wildlife.