Rosamond Gifford Zoo Hosts "Novelis Party for the Planet"

Posted on April 8, 2026

SYRACUSE, NY – The Rosamond Gifford Zoo is evolving its annual Earth Day tradition into a high-impact season of conservation. This year, the zoo continues it’s celebration beyond one-day to lead a region-wide effort focused on cleaning, creating, and connecting to protect the planet we all call home.

By partnering with local schools, neighborhood organizations, and environmental experts, the zoo is spearheading a movement to restore local habitats and protect North American Songbirds and Monarch Butterflies, two high-priority species currently facing extreme pressure in the wild.

The public is invited to join the zoo for two major events:

Earth Day Community Clean-Up: Wednesday, April 22 (Starting at 9 a.m.)

Representing one of the largest green spaces in the City of Syracuse. Volunteers are invited to help maintain our zoo grounds by assisting with weeding, raking, and trash removal.

Take Action: In addition to the on-site cleanup, residents are encouraged to clean their own neighborhoods or local parks.

Sign Up: If you are interested in volunteering to help with our Earth Day clean-up Contact Lauren Wiener (315) 435-8511 x8528

Novelis Party for the Planet: Saturday, April 25 (10 a.m. – 3 p.m.)

This isn't just a party; it’s a conservation celebration. The zoo will host dozens of eco-partners and exhibitors to teach guests how to turn their own backyards into wildlife sanctuaries.

To ensure the impact lasts beyond the zoo gates, guests will receive a tree sapling and seed packets to plant at home  (while supplies last) courtesy of Bartlett Tree Expert.

Event Schedule

11 a.m. – Marco Polo Argali Creature Chat

11:30 a.m. – Outreach – Decomposers Talk 

Noon – Red Wolf Creature Chat

1 p.m. – Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Creature Chat

1:30 p.m. – Pollinator Garden Chat

2 p.m. – Elephant Twins Creature Chat

3 p.m. – Black & Rufous Elephant Shrew Creature Chat

This event is FREE for zoo members or included with zoo admission.

For more information:                                                                                                  

Andrew Brazill

Director of Marketing and Communications

Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo

abrazill@rosamondgiffordzoo.org

(315) 435-8511 x8562

CenterState CEO

Other Member News

Broadway in Syracuse
April 16, 2026

Stay Gold Syracuse – This Season Shines.

Fresh to Syracuse and back by popular demand — this season brings four premieres and two iconic favorites to the stage.

United Way
April 16, 2026

“United for Moms” Mother's Day Drive Returns

Now underway, the drive began on April 1 and will continue through May 3, 2026, with expanded participation and continued support from businesses and community members across Central New York.

Pinnacle
April 15, 2026

Pinnacle Launches GuidePost Staffing Expanding Workforce Solutions Platform

This marks Desimone’s second venture within the Pinnacle ecosystem in under two years, following the successful launch of EverPeak Recruitment.

PINNACLE INSURANCE
April 13, 2026

Pinnacle Insurance Associates Announces Seven Strategic Additions to Support Continued Growth

The new hires bring decades of combined experience across property and casualty insurance, employee benefits, risk management and client service.

Oswego Health
April 13, 2026

Oswego Health Expands Access to Student Mental Health Services with New School-Based Clinic at CiTi BOCES Mexico Campus

The clinic, located onsite at CiTi BOCES Mexico Campus, will serve approximately 2,000 students, ensuring convenient, timely access to behavioral health support.

Roper's Romp Flyer
April 10, 2026

Mrs. Roper's Romp Caftaons for a Cause: Dancing to End Domestic Violence

This fundraiser sponsored by the Zonta Club of Oswego is to help support OCO's SAF whose mission is to provide resources to survivors of domestic violence.

Meet & Greet with SU Lax | Pathfinder Bank
April 10, 2026

Meet & Greet with SU Lax | Pathfinder Bank

Join us for a special community event as Syracuse University Men’s Lacrosse players visit the Pathfinder Bank East Syracuse branch for a live meet and greet and autograph session.

NY SBDC Fast Track to Small Business Workshop
April 10, 2026

CNY Natural Wellness Expo Raises $2,000 for Victory Transformation

The second annual CNY Natural Wellness Expo raised $2,000 for Victory Transformation, supporting the organization’s efforts to provide resources, support, and emergency housing assistance for individuals experiencing homelessness in Oswego…

KeyBank's 2026 Economic & Market Outlook
April 8, 2026

KeyBank's 2026 Economic & Market Outlook

If you’re navigating questions around inflation, interest rates, volatility, portfolio strategy, fiscal policy and more, this event offers timely guidance and a clear look at the forces shaping the year ahead.