University of Cincinnati




Zoo-Mates underway in its fourth school year!   

Keep up with the Zoo-Mates program year with the OFFICIAL ZOO-MATES BLOG.  Check in for photos and stories--updated regularly!

Zoo-Mates is one of our signature programs.  This innovative mentoring program is a partnership between the Center for Community EngagementFaces Without Places, and the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.  30 UC students are matched with 30 Cincinnati Public School children experiencing homelessness for a year-long mentoring relationship.

The students and the children meet once a month at the Zoo for an organized program.  This could include visiting behind the scenes at the elephant house, a cat show, an animal handling demonstration, and more.  In addition, the pairs meet once more each month for a variety of other planned programs (ranging from board games at the children's school to an afternoon at a museum!)  This is a great opportunity to build a meaningful relationship with a child, make an impact on someone's life, and enjoy one of Cincinnati's treasures!

The obligation for the UC student is to commit to meeting every Wednesday from 2:45-4:45 p.m. for the entire school year.

Questions or Want to Learn More?  Call the Center for Community Engagement at 556-1559 or email community.engagement@uc.edu

Support Zoo-Mates   Truehero.org is an organization that awards money to deserving student service projects based on
votes from the community. Vote for Zoo-Mates here!