VOLUNTEERS
HONOR & AWARDS
We can ’ t end the year without recognizing a few of our volunteers who really stand out in their work at the Louisville Zoo . On August 14 , 2016 , the Louisville Zoo ’ s annual Volunteer Appreciation and Recognition Dinner was held to give thanks to all of our volunteers who selflessly gave their time and energy to help the Zoo this past year . During the dinner , awards were given for each area , thanking our volunteers who go above and beyond .
Jonathon Michael Heaton Award
This award is given in memory of an outstanding youth volunteer named Jonathon Michael Heaton who gave over 3,000 volunteer hours to our Zoo . In 1999 , Jonathon died of a heart attack from a congenital heart condition . His dedication and memory are kept alive through this award .
This year ’ s award recipient was Savannah Ruth Robinson .
Savannah consistently goes beyond what is required and is always looking for the next task . Some outstanding tasks she performed this year included compiling conservation education materials for “ World Tapir Day ” and “ Missing Orangutan Mother ’ s Day .” Savannah likes to keep busy both inside and outside the Zoo . She is also the founder of “ My Mom Has Lupus ” and creator and founder of “ Champ ’ s Ball : a night to float like a butterfly for a disease that stings like a bee ,” an event at the Muhammad Ali Center . Her attitude and excitement for helping others make her truly exemplary .
2016 Diane Taylor Spirit Award
The 2016 recipient of the Diane Taylor Spirit Award was Rebecca Anne Thompson . “ Becky ” is a Glacier Run volunteer .
Becky has been a dedicated volunteer with the Glacier Run staff for the past three years . When most people are at home sleeping and resting on their weekends , Becky comes to the Zoo and prepares diets for the bears , seal and sea lions .
She works independently , efficiently and with a positive attitude . She finishes her work ahead of schedule and then performs extra tasks like preparing treats or cleaning . She is known for being patient and considerate when training new volunteers .
Becky ’ s full-time job as a veterinary technician gives her extra
Savannah Ruth Robinson with family of Jonathon Michael Heaton
Volunteer Coordinator Diane Taylor , Rebecca " Becky " Anne Thompson , Zoo Director John Walczak
insight into the health and wellbeing of the animal residents at the Zoo . Becky also fosters homeless animals in need of forever homes . In her spare time , she is an avid runner and participates in long and short distance races . Despite a busy lifestyle , Becky still shows up on time to volunteer on Sundays .
Becky has an incredible dedication to the care and conservation of animals and our planet , which is reflected in her devotion to the animals of Glacier Run .
HORTICULTURE HELPERS !
Students from Nur Islamic School volunteered on Wednesday , October 19 to assist our Horticulture Department . The students did an awesome job laying mulch , raking out brush , and more — and they completed it all before the rain started !
12 • Louisville Zoo Trunkline • Winter 2016