Boston, Mass. Do you know an outstanding youth who is an advocate for wildlife and conservation? Nominate him or her for the Zoo Hero Youth Award. 

As part of the celebration of Zootopia, Zoo New England’s annual fundraising gala, the zoo staff is excited to announce the Zoo Hero Youth Award. The nominated youth should be between the ages of eight and 18, have demonstrated a positive commitment to ZNE and its conservation mission, and have engaged in some outstanding action to support this. The award, which includes a $1,000 scholarship, will be presented at Zootopia on May 3, 2014 to further the recipient's project, conservation work and education. The winner and two adults will receive complimentary tickets to Zootopia to participate in the awards ceremony. 

“We are always incredibly moved when we hear stories about how the zoo and the animals inspire and empower people, particularly kids, to make a difference in their community. I get to meet some truly amazing young people. It’s very exciting to be able to recognize these extraordinary efforts through the Zoo Hero Youth Award,” said John Linehan, President and CEO of Zoo New England. 

Nominations for the Zoo Hero Youth Award are being accepted through Friday, March 21, 2014 at 5:00 p.m. Nomination forms are available at www.zoonewengland.org/zoohero. E-mail questions to zooheroyouthaward@zoonewengland.com. 

Support of Zootopia and sponsorship of the Zoo Hero Youth Award is generously made possible by Margaret and Dewey Awad. 

About Zootopia 

Zootopia 2014 is a gala event that will “bring the Zoo” to the Seaport District as the Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel’s ballroom is transformed for an unforgettable evening. This annual fundraising gala, which will be held May 3 from 6:00 – 11:00 p.m., begins with a cocktail reception and silent auction followed by a spectacular dinner, live auction and dancing. Attendees are encouraged to wear animal-inspired attire. 

Proceeds from Zootopia 2014 will directly benefit Zoo New England’s Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo and will help to further the Zoos’ mission to inspire and educate the next generation of conservation stewards and leaders. 

Tickets are $300 per person. To purchase tickets or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.zoonewengland.org/zootopia2014 or call 617-989-2012.

Zoo New England manages Franklin Park Zoo in Boston and Stone Zoo in Stoneham. Both are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Zoo New England's mission is to inspire people to protect and sustain the natural world for future generations by creating fun and engaging experiences that integrate wildlife and conservation programs, research, and education.