Baby TJ and Zink

When Zink the Zebra Foundation began spreading its message of understanding, acceptance, compassion and tolerance, Gil Boese, then president of the Zoological Society of the Milwaukee County Zoo, in Milwaukee Wisconsin, knew he wanted to somehow collaborate for a good cause.

"Being at the zoo, we thought, 'let's see if there's a naming opporunity'," said Boese.

That's how Zink, a zebra at the Milwaukee County Zoo got her name in 1994. Zink was the last zebra born at the zoo until she gave birth to the Zoo's latest addition, TJ. TJ was born to Zink and Zachary (from the Woodland Park Zoo in Seatle) on June 11, 2002.

TJ is named after T.J.Maxx, the nation's largest off-price retailer and advocate of Zink programs. Bob Hoffman, the Zoo's area supervisor felt it would be appropos for Zink's baby to be named after such a generous supporter of Zink the Zebra Foundation.

"We're honored to have Zink's baby zebra named TJ, after our T.J. Maxx stores," said Renee Katziff, T.J.Maxx company spokesperson. "We hope that families visiting Zink and TJ's home in the Milwaukee County Zoo enjoy the beauty of nature and also take the time to learn about Zink's valuable message of diversity."

Baby TJ takes a walk with her mom Zink at the Milwaukee County Zoo.

Baby TJ, born June 11, 2002 at the Milwaukee County Zoo with mom, Zink.