The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northern Indiana Corridor (BGCNIC) and the Potawatomi Zoo are thrilled to announce a new collaboration that bridges youth development and wildlife conservation. In a nod to the Club’s mascot, the Potawatomi Zoo has formally named one of its resident Blue Dart Frogs “Blu.”
The partnership offers community members a unique way to give back through the Zoo’s animal adoption program. Starting today, supporters can symbolically “Adopt Blu” and half of the proceeds will be donated back to the Boys & Girls Club.
Funds raised through this initiative are earmarked for the Club’s Financial Assistance Fund, which ensures that local families, regardless of their financial situation, can access the Club’s programs.
“Blue dart frogs may be small, but they are bright, bold, and full of energy, just like the youth we serve every day,” said Lindahl Chase, Chief Development Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northern Indiana Corridor. “The Zoo has been a great partner to us for years, from hosting our kids on field trips to bringing educational opportunities directly to Club sites through ‘Zoo to You.’ This is a wonderful next step in our long-standing relationship.”
Last year, BGCNIC held a community-wide contest to name their new mascot, and “Blu” emerged as the winner. Now, that name transitions from a costume to a living ambassador at the Zoo.
“We are delighted to welcome Blu into our adoption family and to support the incredible work of the Boys & Girls Clubs,” said Margie Anella, Director of Development of the Potawatomi Zoo. “It’s an opportunity for families to connect with nature while knowing their contribution is doubling its impact, supporting both animal care here at the Zoo and youth programming in our community.”
The “Adopt Blu” Package
When community members symbolically adopt Blu through the Potawatomi Zoo, they will receive a special commemorative kit, including:
- An official adoption certificate
- A plush Blue Dart Frog wearing a custom Boys & Girls Clubs bandana
- A fact sheet featuring details about both the mascot Blu and real Blue Dart Frogs
Supporters are encouraged to visit the Potawatomi Zoo to see Blu in person and to visit the link below to complete their adoption and support local families.
