Advancing Conservation through Empathy for Wildlife Network
Creating and sharing effective practices to foster empathy for animals and people.
Who We Are
Our Vision
We envision a conservation-minded community, motivated by empathy for animals and the environment that sustains them.
Our Mission
The Advancing Conservation through Empathy for Wildlife (ACE for Wildlife) Network facilitates the sharing of knowledge, experiences, and data to drive conservation change through fostering empathy for animals and the environment that sustains them.
Benefits
The role of the ACE for Wildlife™ Network
The ACE for Wildlife™ Network provides a variety of ways for its participants to share and learn about promoting empathy for animals and people, including events, resource libraries, and more. Discover how we can help you make a difference in conservation.
Bringing People Together
Join our engaging events to learn, connect, and take action for wildlife conservation.
Driving Change
Connect with our global network of professionals at the forefront of innovative conservation initiatives.
Sharing Knowledge
Access our extensive resource libraries to find valuable information and tools for fostering empathy.
Diversity Statement
The ACE for Wildlife™ Network celebrates the variety of perspectives Network Members, Affiliates, and Partners bring to our work. Our diverse abilities, practices and capabilities make us stronger. By fostering a space that supports these strengths, we help our community to flourish. We support and stand with our Network Members, Affiliates, and Partners as they work to create inclusive and empathetic conservation solutions.
We believe each one of us has a role to play in furthering this work. Currently, we are working towards building a structure that will help hold us accountable for embodying these values.
Partner Organizations
Members & Affiliates
resources offered
events hosted
by the numbers
Achievements at a glance
Our achievements stand as a testament to our commitments to conservation and empathy for wildlife. With every milestone reached, each program delivered, and every guest inspired, we celebrate our collective progress. Explore our achievements to see how, together, we’re making a real difference in the world of zoos and aquariums.
Knowledge Base
Powerful Resources
Our resource section is a gateway to knowledge, insights, and tools that drive effective conservation. Dive into a wealth of resources, from research papers to educational materials and practical guides. Join the Network to gain access to more powerful resources.
Do you ever find yourself being asked questions about empathy practices or the Network that you aren’t sure how to answer?
The empathy wheel is designed to consistently and intentionally help us demonstrate that animals are unique individuals, with preferences and habits worthy of our respect and care.
This resource highlights several studies that point to the potential role empathy may play in relation to conservation behavior.
Network Newsletters
Featured Event
October Network Meeting
Join us on October 15th for our annual October Network meeting! Togther we'll shape the Network's learning agenda, learn about an empathy evaluation project from the Zoological Society of Milwaukee, become familiar with a Network communication tool, and learn about exciting events in 2025. Click the link below to register for the event!
View event
Connect with Us
Explore the global reach of the ACE for Wildlife Network
Email the Advancing Empathy team at Woodland Park Zoo
Feel free to email the team at Woodland Park Zoo behind the ACE for Wildlife Network with your inquiries or contributions.
ACE for Wildlife™ Network Affiliate application
Affiliates have access to our discussion board, Network activities, resources, and events, and the ability to serve on a committee or working group.
Woodland Park Zoo Empathy Grant Opportunities
Click here for information about Woodland Park Zoo's Building Organization Capacity to Foster Empathy for Wildlife Granting Program.
Member Testimonials
Hear from our current Members and Affiliates about the positive impact of the Network on their work.
Discover the ACE for Wildlife Network
Join us in fostering empathy for animals and people, and taking conservation actions.