The WMOA Christmas Zoo, started in 1990 by former owner Big John Wharff, was inspired by big city live broadcasts like Macy’s in New York and Lazarus in Columbus. The goal was to collect stuffed animals for local charities, with longtime WMOA morning host Dick Guyer as the first “Zookeeper.” Over the years, Dan Castelli (1995-2006), now Kyle Wenzel, and Ben Marshall (2007-present), have carried on the Zoo’s hybrid mission of collecting animals and monetary donations.

The Zoo’s first home was the Sugden Book Store, followed by JC Penny, First Settlement Restaurant, and now The Workingman’s Store. Over its 35-year history, the WMOA Christmas Zoo has distributed thousands of stuffed animals, raising thousands of dollars for local agencies. Community support has been overwhelming, with both small donations and large contributions and community members who donate every year.

Every year we have our long-time contributors that stop by to drop off their precious animal knowing that they are going to their furever home. So many memories are shared by both the long-time contributors and the new contributors, remembering the Zoo as a child and now making their own contribution to carry on the tradition with their children.

Today, Kyle Wenzel’s dedication to the Zoo is evident in his affection for the stuffed animals, ensuring each finds a loving home. The Zoo has evolved to include cash donations via the WMOA Christmas Zoo Fund through the Marietta Community Foundation, expanding its charitable reach to organizations United Way, Food Pantry, Harvest of Hope, Habitat for Humanity, the Ely Chapman Foundation, The Angel Christmas Tree and others.

The Christmas Zoo remains a cherished part of WMOA’s history and it has also become a treasured tradition for the community. Contributions have gone to Belpre/Morgan Head Start, St. Vincent DePaul Society, Matamoras Learning Center, Salvation Army, Lower Salem Village, EVE, Gospel Mission and the Christmas Day Feast. The need is even greater this year for contributions to the Zoo. We have a shorter collection period between Thanksgiving and Dec. 23. We will begin releasing animals beginning Dec. 10. This creates a little more of a challenge to reach our goal to make sure we have the number of animals. You can begin making donations as early as the first day of collection Nov. 25.

Will you help bring a smile to a child’s face this Christmas Season?

Thank you for your contribution!

Have a very blessed Christmas.