Building a Brighter Future: Jayman BUILT and the Zoo Unite for Conservation

05 FEBRUARY 2025 (Calgary, AB) – Driven by a purpose to act for wildlife; saving species and inspiring people to join them, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is receiving an incredible boost thanks to a partnership with a well-known local home builder. The zoo announced today that a $300,000 gift, delivered over three years, from Jayman BUILT will help the organization further their commitment to protect at-risk wildlife, preserve wild spaces, and inspire people to join in conservation.

Like the zoo, Jayman BUILT has roots that run deep within the Calgary community. In recognition of this generous contribution, the zoo has renamed the plaza leading into their north entrance the Jayman BUILT Plaza. This gathering point has welcomed generations of visitors, serving as the first step into a family-favourite destination where countless adventures are had, and cherished memories are made.

“Partnerships with community builders like Jayman BUILT are instrumental in the pursuit of a future where people and wildlife thrive, together,” said Steven Ross, Chief Development Officer at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. “We are honoured to be partnering with such a well-recognized community leader, and look forward to together welcoming generations of visitors into a world of exploration as they pass through the Jayman BUILT Plaza.”

The partnership represents a shared commitment to a sustainable future, with actions taken today paving the way for a better tomorrow. To celebrate the collaboration, the zoo has unveiled new signage throughout the plaza. These welcoming additions adorn the space where visitors can gather, reflect, and deepen their appreciation for the wonders of nature.

“At Jayman BUILT, we believe in building more than just homes, we believe in investing in communities where families can thrive,” said Jay Westman, Chairman & CEO of Jayman BUILT. “The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo has been at the heart of our community and is a natural extension of our commitment to enhancing the lives of Calgarians. This iconic location brings families together for a day of learning.  We are honoured to become part of the lasting memories Calgarians make as they visit.”

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• We have rebranded and appreciate you referring to us as “Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo” or “the zoo” in print and “Wilder Institute and the Calgary Zoo” verbally. Thanks for helping us get the word out!

For more information contact: 

Alison Archambault
Director, Brand & Engagement
403.232.7766 | 403.919.9482 | mediarelations@calgaryzoo.com

For more than 30 years, the internationally accredited Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo has been a leading authority in wildlife conservation, reintroducing threatened species to the wild and empowering communities to conserve natural resources to positively impact both the environment and local inhabitants.

While our work is global, our roots run deep in the Albertan conservation community. Sitting on 125 acres in the heart of the city, we operate one of the oldest charities in Alberta, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo – a not-for-profit charitable wildlife conservation organization that works to fight the extinction of plants and animals worldwide. In addition to the zoo, we proudly operate the Archibald Biodiversity Centre (ABC), Canada’s largest conservation breeding and research facility. Nestled on 330 acres in the Albertan prairies, the ABC is a stronghold for biodiversity and a temporary home to some of Canada’s most iconic species-at-risk.

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is passionate about inspiring and educating generations of visitors about the importance of biodiversity and conservation. Together, we will continue to be a force of nature for making the world a wilder place. Learn more at WilderInstitute.org and CalgaryZoo.com