Auxiliary Board
The Next Generation, Committed to Preserving Aquatic Life
The Auxiliary Board is the next generation of Shedd’s philanthropic and volunteer leaders. Auxiliary Board members are key ambassadors to Shedd and help plan fundraising events and volunteer opportunities through member-led fundraising, event planning, marketing, membership, and advocacy committees. Learn more about the Auxiliary Board’s events and goals in 2022 and beyond below.
Campaign and Mission
As an integral part of Shedd, Auxiliary Board members aid in the amplification of Shedd’s voice and help design some of Shedd’s most notable events to raise funds for the aquarium’s exhibits, research, conservation, and education programs. In 2022, the Auxiliary Board is launching an exciting and ambitious multi-year campaign in support of Shedd’s Centennial Commitment and 100th anniversary in 2030. The Auxiliary Board aims to raise $2,000,000 over the next five years through the generosity of Board members and their network of friends, family, and colleagues in support of this transformational undertaking, which will accelerate access and connection to nature for all and help to ensure an equitable, sustainable, and thriving future for people and aquatic life.
How to Support
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See the campaign, on the /donations/auxiliary-board page
Make a Gift
See the campaign, on the /donations/auxiliary-board pageMake a gift and help ensure the next 100 years include a world where resilient ecosystems and resilient communities thrive together. The Auxiliary Board is aiming to raise $400,000 in 2022 and we are grateful for your support!
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Get Tickets, on the https://sheddaquarium.jotform.com/221955095643866 page
Attend an Event
Get Tickets, on the https://sheddaquarium.jotform.com/221955095643866 pageShedd’s signature black tie party for the blue planet is back and more immersive than ever! This year’s theme, Thrive, highlights corals and the unprecedented challenges they face due to climate change. Join the Aux Board at 5:30 p.m. on October 1 to celebrate these remarkable creatures and amplify Shedd’s work to protect them. Learn more about Thrive here. Tickets for Auxiliary Board members and guests are half-priced this year and include drinks, dinner, live music, and more!
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Learn More, on the Aquarium Council page
Become an Aquarium Council Member
Learn More, on the Aquarium Council pageAquarium Council members receive VIP access to Shedd, allowing them to look nature in the eye while helping communities here, there, and everywhere to be transformed by Shedd's mission and vision.
In the Community
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help out, on the Shedd Aquarium Action Days page
Action Days
help out, on the Shedd Aquarium Action Days pageMake a difference for the local aquatic world! Volunteer and take action for animals on a Shedd Aquarium Action Day to restore and protect nearby beaches, waterways, and forest preserves. You’ll support animals from frogs to fish while having fun and learning along the way.
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explore chicago, on the Kayak for Conservation page
Kayak for Conservation
explore chicago, on the Kayak for Conservation pageJoin us for one of our Kayak for Conservation tours, where you will paddle along the Chicago River guided by a Shedd nature expert. Learn about innovative efforts to improve the health of the Chicago River and help keep our waterways clean —all while taking in the beauty of our city.
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surge with us, on the /surge page
Surge
surge with us, on the /surge pageSurge is an online hub to learn about and grow your daily relationship with our blue planet— diving into tangible and timely ways to act and advocate for it. Receive opportunities to take action for wildlife right to your inbox or go deep on environmental legislation with our experts.
Annual Board Commitments
Active participation
- Auxiliary Board members are asked to serve on at least one committee (Advocacy, Membership, Fundraising, Event Planning, and Marketing) and attend a minimum of four Auxiliary Board or Shedd programs throughout the year, including quarterly meetings and monthly board programming.
Membership fundraising & friend-raising
- Auxiliary Board members contribute to Shedd’s Annual Fund by maintaining an active membership at the Aquarium Council ($1,500) level or higher, as well as supporting signature events through tickets and sponsorships. Memberships can be instated, upgraded, or renewed in one or several contributions at any time during the calendar year.
- Auxiliary Board members are also asked to raise $1,500 annually through outreach reach out to personal and professional networks on behalf of Shedd and through ticket sales, fundraising events, and corporate support.