Habitat 53 Summer 2018

detroitzoo.org • HABITAT | 19 dzoo.org/support  you make a d i f ference Helping Donors Get Wild for Their Passion For Cliff and Kelly Houseman, the decision to join the Detroit Zoological Society’s philanthropic membership society, Renaissance Circle, was easy. “Kelly loves animals and we wanted to find a meaningful cause to support,” shares Cliff. The Housemans enjoy the opportunity to support the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) and its mission of Celebrating and Saving Wildlife , while enjoying exclusive benefits such as a private “insider” golf cart tour, Renaissance Circle Picnic, Holiday Reception featuring Wild Lights , and more, at membership levels starting at $1,500 annually. In 2017, the Housemans had an opportunity to tour the Ruth Roby Glancy Animal Health Complex. They were inspired by the individualized care provided to animals ranging in weight from a few ounces to more than a ton, and species that include birds, reptiles, mammals and amphibians. They also appreciated the chance to see their contributions at work. The Housemans’ Renaissance Circle membership became a springboard to further involvement with the DZS, particularly through supporting philanthropic events such as Sunset at the Zoo . Fierce competition at the live auction left them the winners of a “Zookeeper in Training” package that offered the opportunity to care for animals with a zookeeper. Kelly chose to work with the giraffes and says, “The experience made my childhood dream of becoming a zookeeper a reality! I left the Zoo that day full of awe, giddy with excitement and overcome with the sudden urge to research zoology programs in the area.” Like the Housemans, all DZS supporters can make a difference for wildlife. If you would like to learn more about the Renaissance Circle or other giving opportunities, please contact Andrea Richards in the Development office at (248) 336-5729 or arichards@dzs.org . CLIFF AND KELLY HOUSEMAN AT THE 2017 WILDLIFE CONSERVATION GALA Buddy’s Pizza: “Proud Pizza Partner of the Detroit Zoo” The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) once again acknowledges Buddy’s Pizza as “Proud Pizza Partner of the Detroit Zoo.” For more than 70 years, Buddy’s Pizza has been serving the original Detroit-style pizza to hungry patrons across the Motor City and beyond, while simultaneously remaining committed to supporting local charitable organizations and cultural institutions. Just last year, the home of the original Detroit-style pizza announced it would open a new restaurant inside the Detroit Zoo in summer of 2018 as the two Detroit icons continue a longstanding and cherished partnership. As a special treat for our members, volunteers and staff, Buddy’s will include discount coupons in various DZS publications. Buddy’s Pizza is passionate about supporting the communities that have supported them for more than seven decades. The DZS thanks Buddy’s Pizza for their continued support as “Proud Pizza Partner of the Detroit Zoo.” Named one of the “top 25 pizza spots in the country” by Food & Wine Magazine, listed as one of “10 pies worth a trip” by Zagat, recognized as “one of the 5 best pizza places” by Food Network, and called “one of the best pizza places” by Pure Michigan, Buddy’s Pizza is the ultimate dining destination before, after, and now, during your visit to the Detroit Zoo.