Since she started volunteering in 2003, Marilyn Gray’s time at Woodland Park Zoo has been one of joy and connection. “I feel like there’s a real place for me here —it sounds corny, but it’s my home away from home.”

Over the years, Marilyn has volunteered with many different departments and programs across the zoo, but it’s the ability to be a part of educating the public about protecting and caring for animals that feels particularly meaningful. “Zoos are unique in that when you come here, you can learn about what animals live in different regions of the world, how we care for these species, and how we can appreciate and protect them. When people see Dave, our giraffe, and you see their faces light up, that’s the perfect 
time to learn about what’s needed to help giraffes in the wild.”

While Marilyn’s love for the zoo may have been sparked by the animals, it’s been the people who have made her time here particularly special. “As a volunteer, I have met the best people at the zoo. 

From staff to volunteers to guests, I’m always impressed with the commitment of everyone who works here. I’ve gotten to know people in every department, and I feel like I’m part of a community that cares deeply.”

Because Woodland Park Zoo is such a central part of her life, Marilyn wants to make sure that she is supporting the zoo however she can, not just as a volunteer and donor, but also as a member of the LionHearts Society, the zoo’s planned giving donor recognition society. Having committed to a gift in her estate plans, Marilyn knows that “if I need to change it, I can, but it gives me peace of mind knowing that I have this in place so that, whatever my estate ends up being, I can make a difference.” And for anyone considering including the zoo in their plans, her advice is to “just do it.”

Woodland Park Zoo is grateful and honored to be a part of Marilyn’s legacy, as a volunteer, donor, and LionHearts Society Member. Her infectious joy and deep care for this place will continue having a lasting impact on the zoo’s efforts to save wildlife and inspire our community to act in protecting the natural world.