ince 1976, Friends of Riverside Park and Zoo, Inc. (FORPAZ) has been improving facilities in Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo. Thousands of dollars have been collected and invested in programs and equipment not covered by the city's tax levy for maintenance. All money raised from fund raisers and memberships are used exclusively for Park & Zoo improvements.

Donations, contributions, bequests, and volunteer time have always been a trademark of Riverside Park. In early years, contributions flowed freely once someone recognized a need and made it known. FORPAZ, working closely with the city's Park Board, provides a continuous organized fund-raising program. Thus, the need to recognize problems, appoint committees, established accounts, and otherwise get organized is eliminated. Problems can be identified quickly and solved before they become crises.