the kindness of meeting with the mammals

I want to be involved in the world. I'd like to help others in some way that is meaningful, like a zoo keeper who helps provide for animals and protect them against the elements. I guess this is a positive perspective on zoos and zoo keeping, I have heard many more negative takes on the whole affair. However, I would like to think that once you gain the trust of the animals and work with them to meet their needs, you are really providing an invaluable service to them. So I think this is my calling, but how do I get involved? Several reliable sources have informed me that a way to break into the system and leave a mark is to begin by volunteering. This is a method of gaining experience and it breaks the cycle of needing experience to get a job, but needing a job to gain experience. Therefore, I set out to explore my options related to volunteering. I e-mailed the "head zoo keeper" at an organization with which I am familiar. This is a man with much experience in the field and someone whom I respect a great deal. He was kind enough to update me on recent happenings within the organization; for example a recent change of location. He advised me that the best way to get involved would be to come in and meet with some of the mammals and get oriented to the surroundings. Therefore, he invited me to come and meet with him in a couple of weeks. I adored this kind overture and am very excited as this might be my way in; my way of making a real difference to animals of all kinds.