June 10, 2026 Jane Goodall Institute of Canada welcomes announcement of free field trips for Toronto students Photo: Bella Lam Dr. Jane Goodall and Dr. Anne Innis Dagg both looked at the natural world with wonder. And soon, through “Guardians Grow Here” — a pilot program that honours both women — thousands of students across Toronto can experience that same wonder themselves. The program, launched yesterday morning, is going to offer students across Toronto free field trips to the zoo — ensuring equitable access for children in underserved communities. Zoos that operate with high standards of animal welfare could offer meaningful experiences for visitors. These field trips to the Toronto Zoo could shape the way students engage with wildlife, and help them see the urgent need to protect their habitats. In other words, these experiences could inspire the next generation of changemakers to fight for a better future — where animals, people, and the environment can all thrive. Our CEO, Bella Lam, attended the announcement yesterday — and celebrated the good news with Mary Dagg, the daughter of Anne Innis Dagg; along with Dolf DeJong, the CEO of the Toronto Zoo; and Olivia Chow, the Mayor of Toronto. “Seeing all the students at yesterday’s announcement, I thought of how Jane spoke about her own childhood, filled with curiousity and moments of wonder. I can’t help but think that this program will create thousands of special moments for many curious young minds.” — Bella Lam, CEO, Jane Goodall Institute of Canada “Every child in Toronto deserves the chance to learn, explore, and be inspired. […] This is about equity in education, and about making sure young people can build a meaningful connection to wildlife, conservation, and the environment we all share.” — Olivia Chow, Mayor, City of Toronto “When a child walks through our gates, sees a polar bear up close, hears the call of a Kookaburra, or locks eyes with a Masai giraffe, something powerful happens. Curiosity turns into connection. Connection becomes empathy. And empathy can grow into lifelong stewardship resulting in a new generation of guardians.” — Dolf DeJong, CEO, Toronto Zoo To learn more about “Guardians Grow Here,” and to see how the program aims to connect students with wildlife, go to the Toronto Zoo’s website. Explore Related Content News and Updates Our New Strategy June 10, 2026 Read more Dr. Jane, News and Updates Official Canadian memorial for Dr. Jane Goodall announced June 10, 2026 Read more News and Updates, Youth Advisory Council, Youth Voices Water Sovereignty: Join our Youth Advisory Council’s virtual panel June 10, 2026 Read more
