Association of Zoos and Aquariums

Riverbanks Zoo And Garden Receives Highest Education Award

CONTACT: Jane Ballentine, (301)562-0777 x252

NEW ORLEANS 22 September 2004 — The American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA) today honored the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, Columbia, SC, with the Association's top Education Award for the Helping Hands – Teens in Action in the Community program. Zoo officials accepted the award at a special presentation during AZA's 80th Annual Conference, meeting here this week.

The Helping Hands – Teens in Action in the Community program employs youth in the greater Columbia area ages 14-17. These youth design and develop programming both in the summer and throughout the school year, for special needs audiences of various levels and abilities.

Each year, AZA recognizes achievement in the area of education by offering competition among its Institution, Related Organization and Society members. Judging is conducted by a panel of individuals selected by the Conservation Education Committee.

The American Zoo and Aquarium Association was founded in 1924 and currently represents 212 accredited zoos and aquariums in North America. AZA's mission is to support membership excellence in conservation, education, science and recreation.

For more information contact Sharon Bergeron, PR Manager at (803) 779-8717, ext 1117 or sbergeron@riverbanks.org.