Dear John,

Today, we celebrate World Wildlife Day and the 50th anniversary of CITES, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation”—recognizing the collaborative and innovative spirit that influences conservation work around the world.

By focusing our work through our eight conservation hubs, we’re continuing to build our global network of nearly 500 conservation partners spanning 17 countries. Across our Alliance, we collaborate with people, communities, corporations, NGOs, and governments as we work to create a world where all life thrives. Organized through our eight conservation hubs, our expertise is fueled by 107 years of conservation at the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park and shared with our partners across the globe creating new possibilities for wildlife worldwide.

World Wildlife Day also marks our second anniversary as San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. At our core, we connect people with authentic stories of nature and immersive experiences with the world’s wildlife at the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We touch the hearts of nearly 6 million guests who visit us each year—and countless allies who connect with us digitally worldwide—inspiring each of them to join us as allies for wildlife.

From the savannas of Africa to the Amazonian forests and classrooms across Hawai’i, you are saving wildlife and reaching conservationists of all ages around the globe. Our global conservation efforts start with allies like you, who walk alongside us, and chose to be an ally for wildlife. We are so grateful to have you as a part of our conservation family and to go on this journey to save, protect, and care for the world’s wildlife with you.

Thank you for being our ally—you are making a hopeful difference for wildlife worldwide.

Together for Wildlife,

Paul Baribault
President and Chief Executive Officer