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| Love of Animals Matched by Their Generosity |
Dedicated and enthusiastic animal lovers, Celeste Ruwwe and Geraldine "Gerry" Hufker have found a second home at the Saint Louis Zoo. The two volunteer at the Zoo whenever needed-usually around three days a week-and Celeste just earned her award for 7,000 volunteer hours while Gerry was recently recognized for her 5,000 volunteer hours. Yet Celeste and Gerry's generosity goes far beyond their gift of time. In addition to financial support, each has designated the Zoo in her will-ensuring a lasting legacy that speaks of their values.
"I just think it's a wonderful institution," says Celeste. "The keepers are so caring; you can just see the love they have for their animals." A native of St. Louis, Celeste spent 30 years as a St. Louis policewoman and a lifetime enjoying the Zoo. Gerry, who retired in 1999 after 39 years as a professor and advisor with Saint Louis University, shares Celeste's sentiment and love for animals. "I feel very strongly that the animals need spokespeople to support them." Together, they do what they can to support the animals and staff at Saint Louis Zoo and relish in the delight of seeing children enjoy the precious creatures.
Docents, ambassadors, tour guides and whatever else is needed, Celeste and Gerry took their most rewarding job seven years ago by helping to care for two 4-month-old chimpanzees. For 14 months, they each gave approximately 50 hours a month to help raise the babies. "That was probably the greatest thing we ever did and an opportunity that very, very few people get," says Gerry. "Now, it's pay back time."
Both women have given annually over the years, and last year they each joined the Marlin Perkins Society. In addition, they have left bequests in their wills, and Celeste has created a charitable gift annuity, an option that offers her a significant rate of return, based on her age.
"As I used to tell my students," says Gerry, "we may not have been given a golden spoon, but it's certainly silver. We have been given a lot by other people, and I feel it's our responsibility to give back as much as we can."
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