Many companies are continuing to try to add a green component and reimage their brands, contributing to a trend of corporate events being hosted at zoos and aquariums.
Many people who attend these events have never been to a zoo or aquarium before or have not visited since childhood.
“Having corporate events is one of the best things we do,” said Gregg Dancho, director of Bridgeport”™s Beardsley Zoo. “It definitely contributes to possible corporate giving down the road and encourages people who haven”™t been to the zoo since they were young or their children were young to come back. It”™s a good opportunity to connect with those people.”
According to Jeannine Luisi, development and events coordinator at the Beardsley Zoo, the trend began about five years ago, though she said there is no question that it has become increasingly popular.
“We”™ve had numerous corporate parties and many people come back and want to have an event of their own here or come back and visit on their own,” said Luisi. “I think the appeal for the individual is that you get to feel like a little kid again. It reminds many people of childhood and allows them to open up and relax.”
According to the Maritime Aquarium, the Fairfield County Public Relations Department chooses the aquarium each time it hosts green-related events.
“Last fall, the same organization ”“” the Fairfield County Public Relations Department “”“ booked the aquarium specifically because its topic was, ”˜The PR of Green: How It Can Impact Your Business,”™” said Tim Gagne, aquarium spokesman.
According to Rudy Sochahe, administrator of zandavisitor.com, the green appeal of zoos, apart from the direct connection with nature, is that they provide several hours of low intensity aerobic exercise, mental enrichment and sensory stimulation.
