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The Belk Foundation Awards Grant for kidZone at NC Zoo
BY: Mike McClanahanJun. 12, 2008
ASHEBORO, N.C.— The North Carolina Zoological Society today announces that the Charlotte-based Belk Foundation has awarded a $25,000 grant for signature sponsorship of the kidZone exhibit at the N.C. Zoo. kidZone opened last year as a place for children to explore the natural world through play and programs. It has since become one of the zoo’s most popular exhibits by inviting children to discover plants and animals in a close-up setting. The Belk Foundation gift will provide supplies and materials, animal care and program support.
“The Belk Foundation is pleased to support the North Carolina Zoo’s innovative kidZone exhibit,” said Paul Wyche of Charlotte, trustee of the Foundation. “It’s a fun way to educate the children of our state about the importance of conservation and to encourage their enjoyment of nature and the outdoors.”
“We are truly grateful for The Belk Foundation’s support of this important exhibit,” said Russ Williams, N.C. Zoo Society executive director. “More than anything else, this gift shows The Belk Foundation’s commitment to the future of conservation by providing meaningful educational experiences for children today.”
Williams pointed out that kidZone emphasizes play and free exploration to foster a love of nature and the outdoors. Children learn how to participate in conservation efforts and preservation of species thorough activities that include nature treks, story-telling, water and mud play, fort building, wildlife art and dramatic play using costumes and animal props. In addition, kidZone offers training for students and interns interested in careers in environmental, outdoor and preschool education.
The Belk Foundation is committed to fulfilling the philanthropic vision of its founders to encourage and support causes aimed at the “up-building of mankind.” The grants it awards are a public expression of the Belk family’s values of stewardship, community involvement and planned giving. Through its generosity, the Foundation seeks to build goodwill and enhance the reputation of Belk stores among the customers and communities they serve.
For more information about The Belk Foundation, contact Susan Blount, Foundation administrator, (704) 426-8396, or Paul Wyche, Foundation trustee, (704) 426-8404.
The North Carolina Zoological Society is a private, non-profit organization that supports the North Carolina Zoo and conservation. The zoo is an agency of the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, William G. Ross Jr., Secretary; Michael F. Easley, Governor.