Zootopia, Zoo New England’s annual fundraising gala presented by Baystate Financial, is going virtual this year, and brings the Zoo to everyone at home with a special online event on May 8.

Beginning at 6 p.m. on May 8, virtual Zootopia attendees can enjoy a special virtual program and view silent auction bidding progress. The virtual gala also features a pre-recorded video message by this year’s E. O. Wilson Living the Mission Award recipient Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, Founder of the Jane Goodall Institute & U. N. Messenger of Peace. Through her more than 60 years of groundbreaking work, Dr. Goodall has not only shown us the urgent need to protect chimpanzees from extinction; she has also redefined species conservation to include the needs of local people and the environment. A compassionate conservation advocate, Dr. Goodall continues to inspire people around the world with her message of hope and belief in the collective power of individual action to save the world we all share.

In addition to donating in support of Zoo New England, participants are invited to bid in Zoo New England’s annual silent auction, opening online on May 1 at Zootopia.GiveSmart.com. This year’s auction items include jewelry, animal artwork, photography, local trips and gift certificates, in addition to special tours at the Zoo.

As in previous years, animal-inspired attire is encouraged. Those at home are encouraged to snap a photo of their best look and share it on social media, tagging Zoo New England and using #Zootopia to participate online. Tickets are on sale now for the virtual event and everyone is invited to join as Zoo New England celebrates the natural world.

Proceeds from Zootopia 2021 directly benefit Zoo New England’s Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo and support the Zoos’ mission to save species from extinction, educate visitors of all ages about wildlife and habitats, and participate in vital conservation work both locally and globally.