TICKETS
JUMP PROGRAM
JUMP PROGRAM
Free admission for qualified individuals across the state of Michigan
John Ball Zoo’s JUMP program helps break down barriers to outdoor, nature-based education by providing free admission for qualified individuals across the state of Michigan.
Ruth Jones, a former John Ball Zoo board member and principal for Grand Rapids Public Schools, imagined a program that would make the Zoo accessible to families regardless of income. All while encouraging an enriching, educational, and cultural experience. In 1998, the JUMP program was born and has since welcomed hundreds of thousands of families to the Zoo.
Individuals that currently qualify for the programs covered by a Michigan Bridge (EBT) card or a WIC card qualify for our JUMP Program benefits.
JUMP admission includes Zoo admission for up to 2 adults and up to 5 dependent children or grandchildren who currently reside in the same household as the cardholder.
Eligible participants must present their MI Bridges card at a Ticket and Membership window, along with any additional household members and a valid ID.
Cardholders are eligible for free admission each day of the season except for the special events listed below. Cardholders and their guests will be asked to pay admission on these event days.
JUMP benefits are not included on the following days:
- WGVU Kids Day – August 3
- Zoo Goes Boo – October 20 – 22, 27 – 29
- Roaring Nights, Grand Rapids Lantern Festival, or any other evening event.
JUMP PROGRAM
Supporting JUMP
While John Ball Zoo is committed to continuing the JUMP program, the expense incurred impacts other Zoo projects, including habitat renovations, expansions, and educational experiences. With the help of our generous supporters and community, families of all income levels can experience outdoor education and the Zoo’s mission of saving wildlife and wild places.
The Impact of Nature Play:
Nature play can encourage care for the earth, nature can improve academic outcomes, and nature can improve health and wellbeing. Learn more about the positive effects of nature from the Children & Nature Network at childrenandnature.org.
If you would like to support the JUMP program, please visit our Donation page and select JUMP as your designation. Or connect with our Development team at (616) 336-3309 or donate@jbzoo.org.
EVENTS
JUMP benefits are not included on the following days:
| EVENT | DATE |
|---|---|
| WGVU Kids Day | August 3 |
| Zoo Goes Boo | October 20 - 22, 27 - 29 |
| Evening Events | Roaring Nights, Grand Rapids Lantern Festival, or any other evening event. |
