Community Access Program (CAP)

Geographic Scope: Puget Sound region, Washington State

Woodland Park Zoo's Community Access Program distributes over 100,000 free zoo tickets annually to qualifying non-profit and human service partner organizations. The program enables partner organizations to distribute tickets to the individuals and communities they serve, particularly those facing economic, ability, or cultural barriers to visiting the zoo.

Key Details

• Partner Organizations: Works with over 400 non-profit and human service partners annually
• Focus Areas: Supporting under-resourced communities, improving access to nature and wildlife education
• Distribution Model: Tickets are distributed through partner organizations, not directly to individuals

Eligibility

Applicant organizations must be:

• Non-profits with verifiable 501(c)3 status, OR
• Government entities: Washington state or local government entities, OR
• Tribal organizations that serve under-resourced individuals, OR
• Community groups without 501(c)3 status (may also apply)

Special Consideration: Religious organizations must demonstrate a secular community function that provides social services to under-resourced communities regardless of religious affiliation without promoting belief in a particular faith.

Not Eligible: Individual people or community members cannot apply directly; they should connect with local non-profit partners.

Related Programs

Individuals interested in accessible or discounted ticket programs should explore:

• $5 Discover Ticket
• $40 Explorer Pass membership for foster and kinship families or recipients of EBT/Washington Quest, SUN Bucks, or WIC assistance

Contact Information

• Website: www.zoo.org/community
• Phone: 206-548-2500
• Email: zooinfo@zoo.org
• Address: 5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103

Support

This program is supported by 4Culture and other generous contributors.

Application Process

1. Visit the Application Portal: Go to www.zoo.org/community
2. Complete Application: Fill out the online application form
3. Submit: Applications are only accepted during designated time periods

Application Period

• Current Deadline: November 25, 2025
• Note: Applications are only accepted during specific designated periods each year

Required Information

Applicants must provide:

• Verification of 501(c)3 status (if applicable)
• Documentation of organization type (non-profit, government entity, tribal organization, or community group)
• Demonstration of service to under-resourced individuals or communities
• For religious organizations: Evidence of secular community function and social services to under-resourced communities without promoting particular faith beliefs

Contact for Questions

For more information about eligibility or assistance with the application, contact:

• Website: www.zoo.org/community
• Phone: 206-548-2500