By Rachel Davis
In summer 2016, Zoo Atlanta will offer unprecedented access to one of its most popular seasonal opportunities with the launch of a new Safari Day Camp Scholarship Program for underprivileged children in the community. As part of the program – a first for Zoo Atlanta – 60 children ages 8 to 11 from Title I Schools in the City of Atlanta and Fulton County will enjoy a week of Safari Day Camp at no cost to their families.
The Zoo’s longtime partner in community access, VSA Arts of Georgia, Inc., has identified eligible Title I-designated schools within the City of Atlanta Public School System and Fulton County Public School System, and the students and their families were notified of the opportunity in the final weeks of the school year. In addition to cost-free Safari Day Camp tuition for one week, children will be provided with free lunches from Nourish Events, the Zoo’s on-site caterer, as well as free rides and attractions. Transportation assistance and after-care will also be available.
“Quality summer opportunities like playing outside, attending a day camp, or visiting the Zoo are experiences many children take for granted, but there are children right here in our community for whom this is not a reality. With this program, Zoo Atlanta has the chance to change the lives of 60 children,” said Raymond B. King, President and CEO. “As educators, conservationists and advocates for wildlife, we know the impact a week at Safari Day Camp can have on a child’s future, and we don’t want children to grow up without this opportunity just because of a lack of financial resources.”
Safari Day Camp: Summer Session began May 31 and runs weekly through August 5. The day camp experience features Zoo tours, hands-on learning, educational games, and personal close encounters with animal ambassadors. Camp is open to potty-trained 4-year-olds to 14-year-olds, and classes are grouped by age level. Half-day camps are available for 4 to 6-year-olds. Full-day camps include Junior Ranger Camp for 5 to 7-year-olds; Ranger Camp for 8 to 11-year-olds; and Quest Camp for 12 to 14-year-olds.
Parents or caregivers interested in the Safari Day Camp Scholarship Program must apply through VSA Arts of Georgia. Eligible children must be 8 to 11 years old. To apply, email Joan.Puckett@VSAartsGA.org.
To learn more about Safari Day Camp, visit www.zooatlanta.org.
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