4 New Spur Experiences Charity Partners (Volume #1)

The Oregon Zoo is situated in Portland on over 64 acres featuring upgraded habitats for nearly half of the entire zoo.  Check out the recently updated Elephant Lands, or the brand-new Education Center that was just opened in 2017.  The Education Center is an active resource for protecting our wildlife and Earth; which it directly participates in as a sustainably-built facility.  Oregon Zoo isn’t done with its expansions either, get excited for a new and expansive primate habitat as well as a savanna-emulating habitat for rhinos in which other large African animals such as gazelles and giraffes will share space in an immersive experience.  The primate and rhino habitats are due to be completed in 2020.   Learn more about the Oregon Zoo and plan your visit at Roar!

Based in Denver is Ascend Performing Arts.  For nearly 60 years they have been expanding education for youth in the performing arts.  Even if you’ve never heard of them there’s a very strong likelihood that you’ve heard them; as the Broncos Stampede Drum Line and Broncos Brass have been entertaining the best NFL fans in the world at home games each season.  Every year Ascend Performing Arts gives opportunity to more than 1000 students with access to hands-on training and learning.  It is more than performing arts, Ascend Performing Arts is an outlet for talented students who, otherwise, wouldn’t have the opportunity to learn valuable life skills including leadership, teamwork, and discipline.   Learn more about Ascend Performing Arts at Pa rum pum pum pum 

Prom dresses average between $100-400 and the sad fact is that there are students throughout the United States who cannot afford this; not to mention the reality that most prom dresses are worn only once.  Abby Egland realized this when she cleaned out her closet on her way off to college and, in 2004, Abby’s Closet was founded by Abby and her mother.  Abby’s Closet collects gowns to give to students for free so that they can attend prom and other important events in childhood.  Over those 13 years Abby’s Closet has given more than 20,000 gowns, mentored students in their Student Advisory Board, and gives a $1,000 scholarship annually.   Learn more about Abby’s Closet at We Can Dance if We Want To

The Xerces Society has been around since 1971 fighting for the rights and protection of our friendly invertebrates.  The declination of bees in recent years has caused quite the stir but that’s just the tip of the buggy threats we’re seeing.  Increased use of insecticide and insect-resistant crops has led to a dangerous world for our insect friends which may lead, in turn, to a difficult world for humans.  Insects pollinate plants and are a vital foundation to the food chain.  The Xerces Society supports their mission by providing advocacy, research, and participating in policy change.