Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois and HISRA families participate in worldwide zoo event for seriously ill and disabled children 

WHO: The Peoria Zoo as part of the international “Dreamnight at the Zoo” is partnering with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois and the Heart of Illinois Special Recreation Association (HISRA) …

WHAT: … to offer an entrance-free night at the zoo with special activities providing VIP treatment to invited families of area children with life-threatening medical conditions served by the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois.  The Peoria Zoo has also invited as its special guests children with physical disabilities served by the Heart of Illinois Special Recreation Association.  Special activities will be offered including crafts, games, animal shows and free food. Dreamnight at the Zoo was Founded in 1996 at the Rotterdam Zoo in the
Netherlands to offer a VIP night out for seriously ill and disabled children.  Since that time, it has grown each year and will be celebrated this year around the world in thirty-six countries at nearly two-hundred zoos.  This is the fifth year that Peoria Zoo has participated in the event.

WHEN: Friday, May 22, 2009

WHERE: Peoria Zoo, Glen Oak Park, 2218 N. Prospect Rd., 5:30 p.m. -7:30 p.m.

WHY: The Peoria Zoo shares in the Make-A-Wish mission to bring hope, strength and joy to special children offering a positive focus for children who must bear the burden of illness just as they begin to dream.  The event will help wish children to relive the wish experience by sharing their stories with one another. 

HOW: Through the generous contributions of the Peoria Zoo and volunteer service of MH Equipment employees as well as the generosity of individual, community and corporate donors.