PRESS ROOM

ROYAL OAK, Mich., 

The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) has received an “exceptional” designation after earning the highest possible rating – four out of four stars – for the fifth consecutive year for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency from the nation’s largest independent evaluator of nonprofit organizations.

This top ranking places the DZS among only 6 percent of charities rated who have received at least five consecutive four-star evaluations, indicating that the DZS outperforms most other charities in America. Charity Navigator monitors 8,000 charities annually.

“This ‘exceptional’ designation from Charity Navigator differentiates the DZS from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust,” said Michael Thatcher, president and CEO of Charity Navigator.

A four-star rating indicates that a charity adheres to good governance and other best practices that minimize the chance of unethical activities and consistently executes its mission in a fiscally responsible way, according to Charity Navigator. The DZS has earned this rating six of the last seven years.