Norristown, PA -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/22/2019 -- Elmwood Park Zoo, the top private event venue in the Montgomery County, PA area, is pleased to announce that it has received a $200,000 grant from The Hess Foundation. The grant will support the zoo's continuing development of services and programs that benefit guests with special needs.
In 2018, Elmwood Park Zoo was the first zoo in the world to be named a Certified Autism Center, a designation that is granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The designation was earned after the zoo's staff received specialized training to better serve guests who are on the autism spectrum.
The zoo also created services for these individuals and their families that help to ensure their visits are educational, comfortable, and fun. Going above and beyond to make sure that all of their guests are comfortable and able to engage in the activities that Elmwood Park Zoo has to offer is among one of their most important traits.
"I was overcome with excitement and appreciation when I received news of the grant," said Elmwood Park Zoo Development Director Jennifer Conti. "We are truly committed to providing the best experience possible to each person who passes through our gates, and our guests with special needs are no exception."
Guests can learn more about Elmwood Park Zoo's amenities, services, and accessibility by visiting https://www.elmwoodparkzoo.org/visit/accessibility-amenities/.
Anyone interested in more information on hosting a private event in the Philadelphia area is encouraged to visit their website at https://www.elmwoodparkzoo.org/. They can also be reached over the phone at 800.652.4143 x 240.
About Elmwood Park Zoo
Located in Norristown, PA, the Elmwood Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Pennsylvania and is a premiere destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts. The zoo features over 100 species from all over the globe. Elmwood Park Zoo offers guests both unique wildlife encounters as well as one-of-a-kind entertainment opportunities. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is owned and operated by the Norristown Zoological Society, a non-profit organization.
For more information about upcoming Zoo events, visit http://www.elmwoodparkzoo.org/.