PHOTO: Riverton residents Nora Harford (second from left) and Rich Kreidler (right) with Riverton staff at Elmwood Park Zoo. – image provided courtesy of Riverton

Former Zookeeper Turned Senior Living Leader Brings Allentown Residents to Elmwood Park Zoo Just in Time for National Zookeeper Week

Giraffe Feeding Highlights Riverton Enhanced Senior Living Visit

ALLENTOWN, Pa. (July 23, 2025) – Before becoming executive director at Riverton Enhanced Senior Living in Allentown, Shelby True spent the early portion of her career working as a zookeeper at Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown. To connect her two career trajectories – and in anticipation of National Zookeeper Week (which began Sunday, July 20) – True put together a memorable experience for two animal-loving Riverton Independent Living residents, taking them to the Zoo for a private giraffe feeding session.

“It was amazing,” said Riverton resident Nora Harford, who attended with Rich Kreidler. “This isn’t a day I’ll soon forget,” Kreidler added.

“I was so thrilled to be able to bring Nora and Rich to my former stomping grounds at Elmwood Park Zoo,” said True. “Our residents at Riverton are inspiring examples of living life to its fullest and pursuing their interests, and we are fortunate to be able to provide those opportunities to support them.”

National Zookeeper Week is a weeklong celebration of zookeepers who spend their lives protecting and preserving wildlife and vanishing habitats. The week aims to raise awareness of the work zookeepers do, thanking them for their effort in educating about wildlife and conservation.

“We were pleased to welcome Shelby back to the Zoo, and to provide Nora and Rich with an engaging and memorable visit,” said Shaun Rogers, Elmwood Park Zoo marketing director. “Our zookeepers play a vital role in our day-to-day operation, and we are thrilled that Riverton chose to help us pay tribute to these essential members of our Zoo family.”

Elmwood Park Zoo celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024. The mission of the Zoo is to foster an appreciation for wildlife and the environment that will inspire active participation in conservation.

Residents at Riverton Enhanced Senior Living enjoy an active, worry-free lifestyle in a warm, welcoming environment that includes beautifully appointed apartments, gourmet dining and an engaging mix of programming and activities. They also have access to the services they need, when they need them – including rehab care at Riverton Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center. To schedule a visit and tour, call 610-782-8300 or visit rivertonseniorliving.com for more information.

Information and image provided to TVL by:
David Wilderotter