Go BananaS!
FORPAZ
Friends of Riverside Park and Zoo
Independence, KS
Goals
The goal of the FORPAZ is to promote the educational influence and recreational value of our Park and Zoo for children and families in our community. We do this by funding projects that add aesthetic beauty to the grounds, add functionality to the facilities, and by supporting educational endeavors initiated by Zoo personnel.
Donations Welcome
FORPAZ receives funds through memorial contributions and private donations as well as semi-annual fundraisers that target specific projects. We are a registered 501(c)(3) charity and all contributions are tax deductible. You can donate here or click here to learn more about becoming a FORPAZ member.
Park Opening
FORPAZ hosts the official Park Opening every spring. Held the second Saturday in April, this annual celebration kicks off the busy summer months by welcoming area families back to the Park with fun, FREE, or low-cost activities like face-painting, train and carousel rides, a petting zoo, and food vendors.
Projects funded all or in part by FORPAZ include…
- Bear Exhibit Construction
- Sculpture Garden Construction
- Playground Renovations
- Cougar Exhibit Improvements
- Monkey Island Renovation
- 3 Eagle Scout projects for the zoo
- Miniature Golf Course Construction
- Carousel Enclosure
- New Ticket Booth at Train Depot
- Logan Fountain Renovation
- Fire Truck Play Unit for Toddler Play Area
- Purchase of two Companion Swings
- Tortoise-Donkey Exhibit Renovations
- Sensory Garden
About Us
Friends of Riverside Park and Zoo was founded in 1976 for the purpose of funding those improvements to the Park and Zoo that fall beyond the scope of the City budget.
FORPAZ 