About Us

Como Friends is a 501c3 nonprofit corporation committed to ensuring Como Park Zoo & Conservatory can welcome the next generation to discover the wonders of our natural world.

Our Mission

A Powerful Partnership

At Como Friends, we inspire community generosity in support of Como Park Zoo & Conservatory so it thrives for generations to come. The successful public/private partnership behind Como Friends has fueled more than 20 years of major improvements at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.

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$1,948,637

in private contributions raised to support Como Park Zoo & Conservatory in 2021
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$46,895,514

in new investment at Como since Como Friends’ founding in 2000
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$167 million

in annual economic impact created at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory for the state of Minnesota

Testimonials

Sherri Fonseth-Lais
Community Volunteer, Como Friends Board Member
Testimonials

“As a community volunteer and a veterinarian, I really appreciate the way that Como Friends’ funding allows keepers to care for animals in a way that Como Zoo’s normal budget might not allow.When you consider the fact that Como is a free zoo, fully accredited with the AZA and with some of the most cutting-edge animal care programs around, it says a lot about our donors, our board and our community and how much we all value great animal care.”

 

Sherri Fonseth-Lais
Community Volunteer, Como Friends Board Member
Sen. John Marty
Minnesota State Senator, District 66
Testimonials

“Fewer than one in six Como visitors live in St. Paul, but more than a third of Como’s funding comes from St. Paul taxpayers. It’s a gift from the people of St. Paul to the state of Minnesota and beyond.”

Sen. John Marty
Minnesota State Senator, District 66
What’s New

The Latest Impact & News and Events

New-born animals, gorgeous gardens, and great conservation programs. Check out what your support for Como Friends makes possible at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.

Impact & News

Events

    Event

    Como Quest

    Saturday & Sunday, June 3rd & 4th, 2023 | 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

    Tickets available now!

    Event

    Sunset Affair

    Thursday, July 20, 2023 | 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
    Learn more about this event.

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