Pride for the Pride
For over 50 years, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens has been a cornerstone of the Coachella Valley and a global leader in wildlife conservation, supporting more than 100 projects worldwide.
Our newest project, Lion Ridge, will introduce African lions to the Zoo and inspire action to protect this keystone species — now fewer than 20,000 remain in the wild.
Pride for the Pride (P4TP) unites the LGBTQ+ community and Living Desert supporters to help make Lion Ridge a reality and highlight our shared commitment to conservation and community impact.
For more information, contact: Cortney Weir | 760.340.5865 | [email protected]
Our Initiatives
Lion Ridge and The Lurie Special Events Center
Phase: 3
Projected Completion: Fall 2028
The final phase of our project draws guests closer to nature. Lion Ridge, a sprawling habitat, will showcase the power and agility of lions. Over 250 years ago, there were an estimated 1 million African Lions. Now, this vulnerable species is estimated to have only 20,000 remaining in the wild. Their survival depends on awareness and support for global conservation efforts.
Adjacent to Lion Ridge will be The Lurie Special Events Center. This unique space, partially funded by Connie and Bob Lurie, will cater to Zoo, private, and corporate events. This space features a stunning 180-degree glass wall offering a direct view into the lion habitat. It can host up to 500 guests for dining while enjoying an unparalleled view of our lion pride. The true Pride of the Desert!
Rhino Savanna
Phase: 2
Completion Date: November 2021
Total Cost: $20 million
Rhino Savanna, The Living Desert’s new four-acre habitat, immerses guests in an African safari experience. Visitors can observe the majestic black rhinos, unique antelopes like springbok and waterbuck, a variety of birds, and intriguing subterranean animals like the naked mole rat. This large, cutting-edge habitat, hosting twelve species, fosters an appreciation for Africa’s wildlife through thoughtful design, meaningful encounters, and a steadfast commitment to conservation and animal care.
Grundhofer Welcome Plaza and Appel Gift Shop
Phase: 1
Completion Date: November 2018
Total Cost: $10 million
The first phase of our Crossroads of Conservation project began with a new welcome entrance, inaugurated in November 2018. Our Patti and Jack Grundhofer Welcome Plaza has already hosted over 500,000 guests. The upgraded admissions center features expedited and electronic ticketing, enhanced guest services, and a wealth of new amenities. Visitors now enjoy animal encounters, volunteer conservation ambassadors, a serene garden area, and cutting-edge technology for an inspiring experience. An extended range of gifts, specialties, and souvenirs can be found at our Suzan and Bill Appel Gift Shop.
Join the Pride
Way to Support
Way to Support
Way to Support
SAVE THE DATE
Join us for the Pride for the Pride Party on Thursday, March 26th, 2026. Stay tuned for more details in the coming wekks!
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Alex Glickman and Gayle Whittemore
Alex and Gayle, married for 14 years, have created a strong tradition of enjoyment and support for The Living Desert with their combined family of 4 adult kids and a 7-year-old grandson.
In late 2024, Alex proposed the idea for PRIDE for the Pride. “A pride of lions represents strength and resilience, which we believe also speaks to the LGBTQ+ community. We need our vibrant community to understand the value and impact that The Living Desert brings,” says Alex.
Alex and Gayle have established a $25,000 match, that will double the impact of P4TP donors.