FLINTON – The Central Pennsylvania Zoological Society property deal, which was expected to house the organization’s expanding education programs and animal-assisted therapy program, has fallen through because of the recession.The Society has ended their $180,000 contract to buy a 4.3 acre property in Houtzdale. The contract, signed in April, came apart this week according to CPZS Board President Ryan Albright.
“When we signed the contract the Society had several potential donors interested in the project and applied for many grants,” Albright said. “In light of the continuing negative economic conditions our resources have dried up and a property purchase of this size is just not feasible.”
CPZS will continue to look for a place to call their own, but in the mean time the Society will focus on educating the public via their animal education programs. “So far we have reached over 600 children in 2009 with our education programs,” said Albright. “We are very proud of the progress we have made and will continue to move forward.”
The Central Pennsylvania Zoological Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the quality of life for Central PA residents (primarily Blair, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Huntingdon, Indiana, and Jefferson counties) though animal-assisted interventions. The Society currently offers animal educational programs to schools, community organizations, and for special events and also organizes educational field trips for the general public to area AZA (Association of Zoos & Aquariums) accredited zoological parks. Long range plans include implementing an animal-assisted therapy program and developing a zoological park in the Central PA region specializing in providing both educational and therapeutic experiences for people of all ages. For more information, visit CPZS on the Web or call (814) 687-4097.