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| History | |
| Jarrett's Story | What We Called Jarrett |
| Jarrett’s Story Nicknamed the Little Zookeeper, Jarrett Meeker was an active, fun-loving third grader who loved nature and all living things. For Jarrett, frequent trips to the Zoo with family and friends were a part of life, a part he really enjoyed. His affection for nature was not limited to animals; he also had a genuine concern for people and, in particular, for other children who had less than he had. When he lost his life in a backyard accident in April 1987 at age eight, it wasn’t long before his parents, Judy and Keith Meeker, found a way to transfer their grief into something positive. Judy and Keith were grateful that they were able to provide Jarrett with the Zoo experiences he grew to love so much. When they lost him, they were inspired by his love of nature and people to help disadvantaged kids experience and learn about wildlife as he did. They co-founded the Jarrett Meeker Foundation in July 1987, just three months after Jarrett’s death. With the commitment and support of a few family friends, JMF set out with a mission to give deserving students who might not otherwise have an opportunity to attend the Zoo’s educational programs or even visit the Zoo, the chance to do so. Through its work, JMF has helped underprivileged and disadvantaged children learn about and experience the wonders of nature, animals, conservation and habitat preservation in Jarrett’s memory. The Foundation and the work that it does is Jarrett's gift—his legacy. |
