While many of us talk about giving back to the community, only about 25% of American adults actually volunteer their time. One of these selfless volunteers is local attorney Kelley N. Durham, Esq., who has been a member of the Phoenix Zoo Auxiliary for seven years, now serving as its president.
“In my day job, I am a trial lawyer focusing on serious personal injury matters and bankruptcy, and a business owner running my law practice. So, like everyone else, I only have a limited amount of time I can devote to volunteering,” she says. “Therefore, I only work with organizations I am truly passionate about and believe in their mission.”
Durham shares that the Phoenix Zoo Auxiliary is a, “longstanding prestigious organization comprised of women who have a common interest and dedication to the conservation of animals both locally and globally through fundraising, volunteering, and being ambassadors for the Phoenix Zoo and its mission.”
An Arizona native, it’s a cause that’s close to her heart as she has been going to the zoo since she was an infant.
“I have the opportunity to lead a group of approximately 100 women in our efforts to fundraise and promote the Phoenix Zoo’s education and conservation mission,” Durham says about her role. “I coordinate our monthly programs, which consist of keeper talks, and meet and greets with various animals that reside in our zoo. One of my favorite programs was when we had a behind-the-scenes visit at the giraffe and zebra barn.”
Durham is excited for the zoo’s current fundraiser, Paw Prints in Glass, and its upcoming fundraiser, Wild Lights for Wildlife, which takes place in November.
“The Phoenix Zoo has always been a sort of sanctuary for me throughout the years. I love animals and am passionate about animal conservation,” she says. “The Phoenix Zoo Auxiliary is a truly unique volunteer experience that not only provides me with a sense of fulfillment, [but] I have also gained deep and lasting relationships that will last a lifetime.”
To inquire about the Phoenix Zoo Auxiliary, e-mail zebraladies@gmail.com.