Conservation Patrons

FAQ

A Conservation Patron is a donor who either contributes $125+ per month or makes one gift ranging from $1,500 to $24,999 per year to WCS. From the Arctic to the Amazon, Patron support makes it possible for WCS to protect coral reefs, tropical forests, and other vital landscapes and seascapes while saving elephants, tigers, whales, and other at-risk species. And at WCS’s five wildlife parks in New York City, Patrons help us inspire millions by sparking lifelong connections to nature.

Yes. By becoming a Conservation Patron, you join a passionate community that is saving wildlife and wild places in over 55 countries around the world.

To show our gratitude for your support, all Conservation Patrons get access to special donor benefits such as updates and communications from the field, direct access to the Patrons Team, recognition in the WCS annual report, and more.

Upon giving a gift at the Conservation Patron level, a donor can also opt to use a portion of their gift to receive a premium Membership to our five New York City wildlife parks. These benefits can be found here. Please note, opting into this premium Membership affects the tax-deductibility of the donation and cannot be done if giving through certain charitable giving vehicles such as a Donor-Advised Fund or IRA.

Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) can be an excellent way to support WCS. However, support received through a DAF cannot be applied toward Patron Membership benefits that hold tangible financial value—such as admission or free parking. DAF contributions must remain fully tax-deductible.

While you can make contributions from an IRA to support WCS, restrictions apply regarding the use of IRA funds to receive goods and services. IRAs may be used to purchase memberships, but only when the donor will not receive more than incidental benefits and when the amount paid is fully tax deductible as a charitable contribution. We greatly appreciate the generosity of our supporters, but given the complexity of the rules associated with gifts from an IRA, we suggest that you consult a financial advisor for guidance on giving from your IRA for membership benefits.

Please allow approximately 1-2 weeks after your gift date for your Conservation Patron membership to be activated. There may be additional processing time in the event of incidental postal delays. All Conservation Patron memberships follow a summer or winter renewal cycle, expiring June 30th or December 31st depending on gift date.

Each Conservation Patrons membership can have three (3) named members listed. At least one of the named members must always be present to utilize the membership and can bring in up to four (4) guests and eight (8) children. Named members must be 18 or older and present a photo ID for entry, along with a ticket reservation and membership card.

Conservation Patrons will receive three (3) identical membership cards with up to three (3) named members within approximately 1-2 weeks of the receipt of their gift. Please allow for additional processing time in the event of incidental postal delays. WCS Members always have access to their member benefits by visiting our member portal at wcsmembers.com. There you can view and download a digital version of your WCS Membership card to your Apple or Google wallet.

No. Members no longer need to make a reservation for regular daytime visits. This makes it easier than ever for you to visit as often as you wish. It’s always a good idea to check the Know Before You Go pages on our websites for the most up to date information.

Conservation Patrons at the Guardian ($10,000+) level receive one annual, private tour at one of our five facilities. To book, please email patrons@wcs.org or call (718) 220-5085. Wild Encounters are not a benefit of the Conservation Patron program but can be purchased separately here.

(718) 220-5085 during normal business hours (Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm).

For general questions about visiting a WCS park, please visit here for additional information such as member park entry and Member Portal information.