ABOUT US

 

Our Mission

 

The Ark Project, a division of the Valley Zoo Development Society, is dedicated to promoting animal conservation and education as part of our commitment to protecting and preserving species on our planet. Our mission is to engage adults aged 18 and above by organizing unique fundraisers and events that raise funds to support the ongoing development of the Edmonton Valley Zoo and its education and conservation programs.

Through our initiatives, such as our popular Zoobrew beer festival and Animal Attraction winter date night, as well as our new series of monthly brewery paint nights and in-Zoo art class series, we aim to create awareness for animal conservation and educate our community about the importance of protecting and preserving our planet’s species. Join us in our mission to make a positive impact on the world around us!

THE COMMITTEE

 

KALEY

President

Kaley is a creative and innovative individual who brings her communication skills to her role as the President of the Ark Project. She has a deep passion for animal welfare and is committed to using her skills to make a difference in the lives of animals. As a proud cat mom of two and a beloved auntie to two children, she understands the importance of caring for animals and cherishing the joy they bring into our lives. Kaley holds a Media Studies and Professional Communications Diploma from Red Deer College and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from Royal Roads University. Her studies have provided her with a strong foundation in communication and media, which she utilizes to support the Ark Project’s mission of raising awareness and funds for the Edmonton Valley Zoo’s revitalization and animal conservation programs. Kaley has been a frequent visitor to the Edmonton Valley Zoo since childhood and has many cherished memories of the animals and experiences she has had there. Her favorite animals at the zoo include the adorable red pandas, playful seals, and majestic snow leopards. Her love for the zoo and its animals motivated her to join the Ark Project, where she can use her skills and passion to make a positive impact on the community. In her free time, Kaley enjoys expressing her creativity through various crafts. Her dedication to the Ark Project’s mission, combined with her leadership skills and creativity, make her an essential part of the team, driving the organization toward success in its efforts to support the zoo’s revitalization and animal conservation programs.

CHRIS

Vice President

Chris is a resourceful and proactive individual, currently serving as the Vice President of the Ark Project. He is in his third year at the University of Alberta, where he is pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce degree. With a strong background in leadership and environmental education, Chris is dedicated to making a positive impact in his community. Prior to his involvement with the Ark Project, Chris was part of the Alberta Youth Leaders for Environmental Education, where he worked to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices. He also served on the Minister’s Youth Council, where he worked with other young leaders to advocate for positive change in the community. Outside of his academic and leadership pursuits, Chris has a passion for wildlife and conservation. His favorite animal at the Edmonton Valley Zoo is the ring-tailed lemur, and he is excited to be part of the Ark Project to engage more people with the Zoo and share its important work. With his strong work ethic, leadership skills, and commitment to environmental causes, Chris is a valuable member of the Ark Project team and a positive force in his community.

JORDY

Treasurer

Jordy is a recent graduate of the University of Alberta, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science. He discovered his passion for helping the Valley Zoo while working with the Valley Zoo Development Society, assisting with fundraising events. He has now joined the Ark Project team to continue supporting the zoo’s revitalization efforts and animal conservation programs. Jordy has had a lifelong love of the Valley Zoo, having visited it on numerous school field trips as a child. He cares deeply about conservation and is committed to the Valley Zoo’s participation in the Species Survival Plan Program, which seeks to protect endangered species. As the Ark Project Treasurer, Jordy plays a vital role in managing the team’s finances and ensuring that resources are allocated effectively. His attention to detail, financial acumen, and dedication to the cause make him an invaluable member of the team. Jordy is an avid nature lover and is looking forward to exploring the great outdoors this summer. His favorite animal at the Valley Zoo is the black and white ruffed lemur, as it reminds him of his favorite childhood TV show – Zoboomafoo. With his passion for animal conservation and his commitment to the Valley Zoo’s mission, Jordy is a valuable asset to the Ark Project team.

JASON

Member at Large

Jason is a dynamic and adventurous individual, currently serving as a member at large for the Ark Project. He describes himself as a risk-taker who enjoys taking on new challenges and exploring new cultures and perspectives. With a diverse background in digital marketing, he brings a wealth of experience to the team. Before embarking on his current travels, Jason worked in a variety of marketing roles, including agencies, freelance, and in-house marketing teams. Most recently, he served as a Marketing Coordinator at Edmonton Global, where he played a key role in developing and executing marketing campaigns. During his hiatus, Jason has pursued his love of adventure, taking part in a range of exciting activities such as bike-packing throughout Europe, riverboating through Thailand and Laos, and doing a one-day speed run in Singapore. Through his travels, he has learned the importance of adapting, connecting, and building relationships with others to overcome any challenges that arise. As a member at large for the Ark Project, Jason brings his unique perspective and passion for adventure to the team. He is dedicated to finding innovative ways to engage people with the Zoo and share its important work with the wider community. With his adventurous spirit and creative approach, Jason is a valuable asset to the Ark Project team.

KELLEY

VZDS Liaison

Kelley is a dedicated and passionate individual, currently serving as the Ark Project Liaison for the Valley Zoo Development Society and one of the Zoobrew Event Coordinators. She is in her fourth year at the University of Alberta, where she is pursuing a degree in Psychology and Sociology. Kelley has been actively involved in volunteering and fundraising for various organizations for over 15 years. Her dedication and hard work in the philanthropic community were recognized in 2014 when she was awarded the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Outstanding Philanthropist Award for her contributions to the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation. Growing up visiting the Edmonton Valley Zoo, Kelley has always had a deep love and appreciation for animals. Now, as part of the Ark Project team, she is thrilled to have the opportunity to help raise funds to support the continued development of the zoo and to share its important work in animal conservation and education with the wider community. As the Ark Project Liaison for the Valley Zoo Development Society and a Zoobrew Event Coordinator, Kelley plays a key role in coordinating fundraising events and engaging the community in the zoo’s mission. Her organizational skills, attention to detail, and passion for the cause make her an asset to the team. Kelley’s favourite animals at the zoo are the North American River Otters, especially our otter Steve. She is inspired by the playful and curious nature of these animals, and is committed to ensuring that they and all the other animals at the zoo receive the best possible care. With her strong work ethic, dedication to the cause, and love of animals, Kelley is a valuable member of the Ark Project team and a positive force in the community.

COURTNEY

Past President

Courtney is the past president of the Ark Project. Courtney is a graduate of the Bachelor of Communications Studies program at MacEwan University. She has always loved animals and is passionate about learning about the different species that inhabit our earth. Courtney enjoys being creative and working with people. She has been involved with various operations within the Valley Zoo Development Society for many years and loves doing her part to assist in the revitalization of the Valley Zoo while also learning more about the animals that live there and the conservation and sustainability of our planet as a whole. Courtney has been an integral part of the Ark Project for many years. Her leadership, passion, and creativity have helped make the Ark Project what it is today. She is an essential part of the team and has made a great difference in the efforts made to revitalize the zoo.