DONATING FOR DEMOLITION? That’s exactly what Jane and Bill Browning’s daughters decided to do from their donor-advised fund at CFT.
“When Michael Meadows told us about the Dallas Zoo’s needs, we knew no one would give to demolish something,” said Averille Dawson. “But our mom would really like that—to do something that the Zoo desperately needed and make room for something better. Sometimes less is more.”
In 1959, the large mammal building was considered a state-of-the-art facility and showcased two elephants, three giraffes and five hippos. But since the 2010 opening of the Giants of the Savanna exhibit, where these large mammals can roam in open habitats, the former building became outdated.
“For most donors, taking a building down isn’t as exciting as putting one up,” said Dallas Zoological Society president and CEO Michael Meadows. “But thanks to the Jane and Bill Browning Family Fund of CFT, we were able to remove an eyesore and transform the area into Picnic Ridge, a beautiful place for families and friends to enjoy in time for us to kick off our 125th birthday celebrations.”
On the expansive lawn, Safari Express, a kid-sized electric train, gives rides and many events are planned. Learn more at dallaszoo.com.