SEATTLE - Seattle-based HomeStreet Bank and Woodland Park Zoo are partnering together for “Wild About Zoos,” a special six-month promotion in support of zoo programs and operations. From April through September 2002, HomeStreet Bank will donate $5 to Woodland Park Zoo for every bank account, mortgage, loan, and insurance policy opened in its Snohomish and King County branches.

One of the largest privately-owned banks in the Northwest, HomeStreet Bank began in Seattle’s University District in 1921. Its tradition of community involvement dates from its early years, taking the form of community leadership, volunteerism, and charitable contributions. Each year, HomeStreet contributes 2% of its annual pre-tax profits to organizations in its communities.

“Supporting our parks and open spaces is a major area of community involvement for HomeStreet,” said Kathryn Williams, Senior Vice President and Community Relations Director of HomeStreet Bank. “We have worked in close partnership with the zoo for more than thirty years now, and we are very happy to support an organization that plays such an important part in making this a wonderful region in which to live, work and raise a family.”

“Tomorrow’s zoos must respond to our growing understanding of wildlife and the increasing need for species preservation,” noted Woodland Park Zoo Society Executive Director/CEO Dave Towne. “Partnerships such as this with HomeStreet help to ensure our zoo is meeting this response effectively.”

Woodland Park Zoo is a top award-winning zoo and is highly respected for its conservation efforts worldwide. Featuring hundreds of rare and endangered animal species and a vast variety of plant species, the 103-year-old zoo has become a long-standing treasure in the region, serving people of all ages and backgrounds. The zoo is open every day of the year.

For more information about Wild About Zoos, call HomeStreet Bank at (800) 719-8080 or visit online at www.homestreet.com. For general zoo information, call (206) 684-4800.