DENVER/July 31, 2020 – Morris Animal Foundation has received a $2 million legacy gift from the estate of Barbara L. Zellner, a lifelong animal lover from Oregon. It is one of the largest single planned giving donations the Foundation has ever received.
“We are very grateful to Ms. Zellner for this truly generous gift that will help us address critical animal health problems around the world,” said Tiffany Grunert, Morris Animal Foundation President and CEO. “Especially during these challenging times, a gift of this magnitude allows us to continue building our current programs as well as embrace new research opportunities that will advance the health and well-being of animals.”
Zellner, who passed away in 2017 at the age of 75, lived in Beaverton, Oregon. She was particularly passionate about horses and owned and published The Lariat, a monthly horse enthusiast publication. Zellner was a horse show steward and spent decades traveling to major horse shows across the country, ensuring competitors conformed to U.S. Equestrian Federation rules. She also volunteered with Portland-area animal rescues.
The Foundation’s planned giving program, the Lamplighter Society, is a way for donors to make a lasting difference for animal health. Planned gifts made through life insurance plans, retirement assets, bequests or trusts often are transformative gifts and help the Foundation plan for the future.
Morris Animal Foundation is one of the few nonprofit, global organizations focused on improving the health of animals, including dogs, cats, horses and wildlife. As the cost of conducting groundbreaking scientific research continues to increase, the Foundation remains dedicated to its promise to fund outstanding research and support excellent scientists who hold the keys to a healthier future for all animals.
About Morris Animal Foundation
Morris Animal Foundation’s mission is to bridge science and resources to advance the health of animals. Founded by a veterinarian in 1948, we fund and conduct critical health studies for the benefit of all animals. Learn more at morrisanimalfoundation.org.
