Who we are

Happy Hollow Foundation fosters pride and involvement so that Happy Hollow Park & Zoo remains a community asset that is highly valued and accessible to all. We support conservation, education and play through innovative programming and strategic fundraising initiatives.

The foundation, established in 1958, continues Happy Hollow’s rich legacy in San José by nurturing and growing a pool of donors who are passionate advocates for the park and zoo. Our efforts include funding life science education opportunities for underserved students; providing access for foster children; promoting healthy living for older adults as well as upgrading zoo exhibits and rides; providing animal care and enrichment tools; and advocating for conservation by administering grants locally and globally.

Happy Hollow Foundation is the registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit partner of Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, which is owned and operated by the City of San José.

Questions? Contact Happy Hollow Foundation at 408-277-3498 or [email protected].

What We Do

Conservation

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Education

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Play

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Ways to Give

Your gift supports Happy Hollow’s mission to connect people to nature through play. Donations fund life science lessons at low-income schools, new exhibits and attractions, and much more.

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Dreambuilders

Danny the Dragon’s Dreambuilders are Happy Hollow Foundation's closest partners, investing in Happy Hollow with gifts of $1,000 or more. Learn about the perks of joining this generous community!

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Annual Report 2024

Happy Hollow Foundation ended 2024 strong and is beginning 2025 even stronger! Read all about the year’s achievements in Happy Hollow Foundation’s annual report which celebrates 365 days of partnership with Happy Hollow Park & Zoo and our shared mission of promoting conservation, education and play.

Read the Report Now

Executive Director

Happy Hollow Foundation is thrilled to welcome Rhonda Nourse as our new Executive Director. After an extensive search, the HHF board of directors chose Rhonda for this important role leading the foundation, which supports the park and zoo through innovative programming and strategic fundraising initiatives. Rhonda is a highly respected fundraising professional and excellent communicator with deep connections in the Silicon Valley community.

Read our blog about Rhonda