Photography by
Orlando V. Cordova
Additional photography provided by
Conservation Society of El Paso
In the quiet calm of a spring afternoon, children sit cross-legged in a shaded tent at Licon Dairy, waiting eagerly for bunnies to nuzzle into their laps. Around them, parents whisper, “This is magical,” as the children settle into an experience many of them have never had before, an intimate encounter with animals in a natural setting, far from screens, notifications, and the constant buzz of modern life.
This is the essence of the newly rebranded Conservation Society of El Paso: fostering connection, not only between children and animals, but also between people and the living world around them.
Yet, behind the peaceful scenes and smiling faces, there’s a deeper story of resilience, one marked by hardship, reinvention, and an unwavering belief in the power of community.
Formerly known as the El Paso Zoological Society, the organization is stepping boldly into a new era with a name that reflects its expanded mission: empowering El Pasoans, especially young people, to become active stewards of the environment. The rebrand, officially unveiled at a packed event in February, is more than a new name: it’s the culmination of a hard-fought journey through one of the most difficult chapters in the nonprofit’s history.
“Last year was incredibly tough,” says Renee Neuert, CEO of the Conservation Society. “We were navigating the darkness, facing difficult decisions like staff reductions, budget constraints, and an uncertain future. It felt like we were swimming upstream, wondering if we’d even survive.”
In its 63-year history, the Society faced its most significant challenge in 2024.
However, the organization persevered just like the resilient landscape it aims to protect. From these immense challenges emerged a brilliant opportunity, and they transformed adversity into strength. Nature teaches us that with every struggle, there is transformation, and the most impactful changes occur in the smallest moments.
Ultimately, one thing became apparent: the mission to inspire a love of nature and a commitment to conservation.
“What emerged from that struggle was something stronger and more purposeful,” says Board President Pam Agullo. “We realized we were standing at a crossroads. And thanks to the incredible support from our community, we found our way forward.”
Throughout this period of uncertainty, one constant remained – the unwavering support of El Paso’s people. Donors who had championed the organization in its zoological society days continued to show up. Volunteers offered their time and talents, and partner organizations reaffirmed their belief in the Society’s mission.
“Our supporters told us, ‘We believe in you. We always have,’” Agullo says. “They understood how important it is for our community to have access to nature, to hands-on learning experiences, and to programs that plant the seeds of environmental stewardship in young minds.”
This groundswell of encouragement became the catalyst for the Society’s evolution. A committed team of staff and board members spent months reimagining the organization’s role in the community. They deliberated over names, taglines, and the values they wanted to highlight, ultimately landing on a brand that reflects a deeper, broader commitment to conservation and education.
“It was a process,” Neuert admits, “but it brought us closer together as a team. Every meeting, every decision – big or small – was collaborative. We leaned on each other and came out stronger.”
In a region like our Borderland – where the Chihuahuan Desert meets the vibrant culture of El Paso – access to nature can be both a challenge and an opportunity. Urban sprawl, rising screen time, and limited green spaces can leave many children disconnected from the outdoors.
The Conservation Society is changing that, one rabbit, goat, and ferret at a time.
Through its traveling “mobile classrooms” and partnerships with outdoor destinations like Bodega Loya and Licon Dairy in Socorro, as well as Hueco Tanks, the organization is creating immersive, hands-on experiences where kids can interact with animals, explore ecosystems, and discover the magic of the natural world.
“When kids touch a bunny, feel its heartbeat, or hold a worm for the first time, you can see the wonder light up in their eyes,” says Alejandra Aburto, Education Manager. “At first, they might be hesitant, but soon they’re giggling and asking questions. Those moments are priceless.”
These experiences are more than just memorable – they’re transformational.
Numerous studies show that exposure to nature boosts mental health, reduces stress, and improves focus in children. For kids in the Borderland, many of whom live in urban neighborhoods with limited access to green spaces, these programs offer a vital bridge to the outdoors.
“There’s something healing about being surrounded by animals, fresh air, and the earth,” Agullo says. “It grounds you. And for kids, it helps cultivate empathy, not just for animals, but also for the environment and for each other.”
The shift toward conservation-focused, immersive learning is already bearing fruit. Last summer’s camps and classroom visits introduced hundreds of children to pollinators, composting, and animal husbandry, helping them understand their role in protecting ecosystems.
“Instead of learning from a distance, our kids are getting up close,” Neuert explains. “They’re touching, feeling, and forging real connections. And it’s in those connections that lifelong conservationists are born.”
This year, the Society is expanding its offerings, with summer camps scheduled for June and July and new partnerships on the horizon. Whether it’s learning about the crucial role of honeybees or digging into the soil to find wriggling earthworms, the goal is to foster curiosity, compassion, and a sense of stewardship.
“There’s no substitute for getting your hands dirty and experiencing nature firsthand,” Aburto says. “And in the Borderland, where desert beauty is all around us, it’s our mission to help kids – and adults – see it, feel it, and protect it.”
For the team behind the Conservation Society of El Paso, the challenges of the past year have forged a renewed sense of passion and urgency. “We’ve discovered our strength,” Agullo reflects. “We’ve faced adversity, but we’ve come out of it more unified, more creative, and more determined than ever.”
Neuert agrees.
“The light has returned, and it feels like this is where we were meant to be all along.”
As the organization moves forward, it does so with a clear purpose: to reconnect the community to the land, animals, and ecosystems that make the Borderland unique; and to empower the next generation to care for them.
“We’re inviting everyone to be part of this journey,” Agullo says. “Whether you volunteer, donate, or simply bring your family to one of our programs, you’re helping us build a brighter, greener future for El Paso.”
