Support Polar Bear Conservation at the Toronto Zoo
The Polar Bears at your Toronto Zoo serve as champions for their wild counterparts, advocating for a future where they are protected and preserved. But we can't achieve this vision without your help.
This year’s Move Your Paws for the Polar Bear Cause 5K & 1K Run/Walk is more than just an event – it’s a call to action for all of us to stand up for one of Canada’s most vulnerable species.
Due to the devastating impacts of climate change and the loss of sea ice, the future of these iconic creatures is hanging by a thread: without sea ice, their ability to hunt, reproduce, and migrate is severely compromised, pushing them ever closer to extinction.
Your Toronto Zoo is currently home to four polar bears who serve as powerful ambassadors for their species, educating guests about the impacts of climate change and inspiring action. But we want to do more for them – and we need your help to do it.
With a fundraising goal of $35,000, every dollar raised will directly support your Toronto Zoo’s Polar Bear Life Support System (LSS) Project. This project involves modifications to the existing pool for our four polar bears, including new housing for advanced mechanical and filtration systems to allow for a saltwater system and adapting the current Tundra Trek pathway. These bears are used to saltwater and by upgrading our polar bear habitat, we will improve the experience and overall, well being for the bears currently living at the Toronto Zoo.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. Polar bear cubs are still being found abandoned in the wild. While researchers are still studying the causes, it’s clear that stress from habitat loss and human conflict is contributing to this tragic phenomenon. That's why your Toronto Zoo is willing to provide a sanctuary for orphaned cubs in need of a safe home.
How can you make a difference?
- Donate directly to the Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy when you register for the event.
- Amplify your impact by sharing your fundraising page with friends and family – every contribution, no matter the size, will help us reach our $35,000 goal.
Together, we can help ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the beauty and majesty of polar bears – both at your Toronto Zoo and in the wild. Join us.
Fundraise Your Way To Amazing Prizes!
Early Bird Prize – Raise $400 by January 31st at midnight and you will automatically be entered into a draw for a chance to win a one-of-a-kind painting created by Toronto Zoo polar bear, Hudson!
Top Fundraiser – Polar bear meal prep and feeding demonstration, and custom medal display crafted by ChopValue!
Have you ever wondered what goes into feeding all of the animals at the Toronto Zoo? Step behind the scenes and get ready for a hands-on experience in our Nutrition Science Centre where you’ll have the unique opportunity to help prepare a meal for our polar bears. You’ll start with a guided tour of the Nutrition Science Centre facilities, where you’ll get an inside look at the high level of care required to design and prepare species specific feeding programs for the Zoo’s residents. Then get ready to roll up your sleeves and join the team in preparing a nutritious feast for the polar bears. After that, head to their habitat to finish the diet prep and watch as the bears enjoy their meal!
This experience is valid for up to four (4) guests and includes full-day general admission to the Toronto Zoo.
*Please note: This prize must be redeemed before December 12, 2025. The date and time of this experience are subject to availability.
2nd Place – Toronto Zoo sweatshirt, custom medal display crafted by ChopValue, and 2025 Oasis ZooRun Entry!
3rd Place – Toronto Zoo t-shirt, custom medal display crafted by ChopValue, and 2025 Oasis ZooRun Entry!
Top Fundraising Team – A virtual and interactive tour of your Toronto Zoo for up to 50 participants!
Get ready to experience your Toronto Zoo like never before! This one-of-a-kind, 40-minute tour will take you and your friends, family, or coworkers (up to 50 participants) through one region of your Toronto Zoo. This interactive experience will give you a chance to see and learn about several of the animals in our care and will include a Q&A session.
*Please note: This prize must be redeemed before December 12, 2025. The date and time of the virtual tour are subject to availability.
Fundraising totals will be calculated on Friday, February 21st at 5pm ET based on online fundraising pages.
Prizes are subject to change, are not transferable, and can be won by any participant, regardless of finish place or completion.
Personalize your Fundraising Page
It’s easy to get started - simply personalize your fundraising page and send it around to family and friends!
- To customize your page, select Donate to participant, search for your name, and click on Donate next to your profile.
- Sign In to Race Roster if not yet logged in (top right).
- Click Edit fundraising page below the profile image on the right-hand side.
- Specify your fundraising goal, write a personal message, and upload a photo (or keep it as the polar bear!)
- Be sure to scroll down and click Save updated fundraising information.
Donate to a Participant
Click here to search for a participant to sponsor.
Make a General Donation
Click here to make a direct donation to the Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy.
