Riverbanks Society is the private, chartered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supporting the needs of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Established in 1976 by a group of concerned citizens, the Society started out with a base of 200 members and has grown far beyond expectations, peaking at more than 50,000 member households representing over 200,000 individuals, making it one of the largest nonprofit zoo societies per capita in the United States.
The Society is governed by an up to 21-member Board of Directors. Board members are elected to three-year terms through a formal nominating process. It is the sole responsibility of Riverbanks Society to promote the membership program and serve as the fundraising arm of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.