Palm Beach Zoo - Bold Vision

The future looks WILD

CAMPAIGN FOR PALM BEACH ZOO AND CONSERVATION SOCIETY

A young girl locks eyes with a powerful cheetah. The cheetah yawns, revealing long, sharp canines and a massive maw. The two continue to study one another. Fascinated, the child grasps her teacher’s hand and draws closer to take in the sleek cat’s awesome beauty. In this moment it seems as if a spell is cast, and a deep connection with wildlife is formed. The cheetah encounter will leave a lasting impression on the girl, inspiring a life-long appreciation for the natural world.

Over our 50-year history, Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society has created countless indelible connections between humans and wildlife. Scenarios similar to the one above are a daily occurrence. Year-round, we attract over 400,000 visitors. Many, like the young girl in our story, are students from Title I schools who may only have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in nature and wildlife through Zoo experiences.

Robert Swan

“

Transforming their world.

Humans, especially children, crave nature. Being near wildlife has been shown to boost our health and state of mind. Immersion in nature energizes and transforms us. Yet, as humans continue to encroach on natural ecosystems and more wildlife becomes endangered, we in turn endanger our own wellbeing and even survival. By its simple existence, wildlife protects the ecosystems we need to thrive.

Clearly, nature is in trouble. Species are nearing extinction at an alarming pace and younger generations are losing touch with the outdoors. Now is the time to create a stronger force for wildlife by connecting people to the wild in order to save it.

Palm Beach Zoo’s commitment to saving wildlife and to transforming the humans who will save nature defines our very purpose on this planet.

TAKING ON THE CHALLENGES THAT CAN’T WAIT.

Humans and animals need healthy ecosystems to survive.

Children need more time in nature to thrive.

We need nature, and nature needs us.

And ours.

There is a powerful force unleashed when young people resolve to make a change.

“

Jane Goodall

Amplifying our purpose on this planet.

Providing opportunity & Vitamin Z.

Witnessing a jaguar roaming free in South America, a tiger crossing a Malaysian river or a giraffe grazing in the grasslands of Africa are only experienced by the small percentage of people who have the luxury of traveling globally. For most, especially underserved children, it’s just a distant dream.

Our Zoo believes that everyone should have the opportunity to observe, learn about and connect with amazing animals from around the world. Whether you’re enthralled by prowling panthers, elegant flamingos or playful monkeys, there’s no better place to be than at our Zoo. We affectionately call the Palm Beach Zoo experience getting “a good dose of Vitamin Z” (Z for Zoo), reflecting the relaxation and uplifting energy people feel when they visit.

Providing an opportunity to have novel experiences with the unfamiliar and to improve wellbeing naturally makes us an irreplaceable resource in our community.

Providing a great reason to unplug.

Our green oasis is an easy way to get out into nature, and it also encourages connections of all kinds. Visited by young families, grandparents and school groups, we encourage togetherness — time to unplug from electronic devices and to experience an adventure with each other.

Connections made between our visitors and our animals can be profound. In fact, they can change lives in countless ways. As empathy for other living beings leads to a hunger for learning, these connections become a powerful lever for conservation action.

Bolstering wildlife conservation solutions. We partner with other zoos that are members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums® (AZA) to offer support and expertise for endangered species far from our South Florida home. These efforts include jaguar conservation in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve in Belize, Malayan tiger conservation through the Wildlife Conservation Society, and the Somali Giraffe Project in Kenya.

Our local field conservation programs include three impactful, longterm projects: coral reef rescue, Florida panther conservation as well as swallow-tailed kite and snail kite conservation. AZA zoos like ours are improving the odds of survival for endangered species.

Doing our utmost for our animals and their species.

Safeguarding the wellbeing of wildlife across the globe and in the U.S. is also reliant on a network of AZA-accredited zoos, all working together to strengthen healthy and diverse populations of rare and endangered species. This requires that the animals are thriving in their zoological homes.

Providing uncompromised care.

To ensure our animals have the very best care, we are using science and research to assess their wellbeing and happiness. Nutrition, proactive healthcare, enriching activities and dedicated caretakers all ensure that every single day is mentally and physically stimulating for our animals.

Innovative spaces: Fostering world-class shared experiences. Working closely with our design partners, Palm Beach Zoo is developing inventive spaces and pathways for our animals to travel throughout their habitats. Our animals will also experience Zoo guests in novel and engaging ways that more closely mimic nature. These exceptional habitats will invite both children and adults to jump, climb, wade and explore alongside the animals.

What is the AZA?

The AZA is an organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums. AZAaccredited zoos and aquariums meet the highest standards in animal wellbeing and dedicate millions of dollars annually to saving wildlife.

It’s time for the Zoo of the Future.

We firmly believe our BOLD VISION will create a Zoo of the Future right here in Palm Beach. Our goal is to ensure a world-class zoo where every visitor, from the youngest to the most senior, feels a connection to nature. We want them to experience the wonder of exploration and find being in the presence of animals irresistibly motivating – so much so that they will join the global effort to protect and heal our beautiful, yet struggling, natura l world.

The wild potential of Palm Beach Zoo.

Creating a zoo for the future with our largest expansion ever.

Our sights are set.

We’re looking to a future that’s more than just caring for animals at the Zoo. It’s a vision of deep connection, of immersive experiences that will compel guests to become a greater force for wildlife and wild places.

We see the African continent as not only the origin of our newest animals, but also, in its rich designs, musical rhythms, and sweeping landscapes, an endless source of creative inspiration.

We see an unyielding partnership with nature that includes elevated care and transformative habitats for every animal under our watch.

Because it’s only by being bold that we can truly convey how amazing the natural world is and, through the collective power of a caring, committed community, it’s how we can help save it.

NEW SPECIES AT THE ZOO

CHEETAH GIRAFFE MEERKAT

The world’s tallest animal

The world’s fastest land animal

The world’s cutest animal

Welcome to Africa

Inspiring guests like never before.

It’s a tall order, but together we can do it.

Few things can measure up to hand-feeding a giraffe, feeling the unrestrained power of a speeding cheetah or being charmed by a curious family of meerkats.

In our new Africa area, guests will get a sense of what it’s like to explore the wilds of Africa, feel the energy and excitement of an African village and interact with some of the most iconic animals on earth – including the tallest, the fastest and, quite possibly, the cutest.

Zoo guests will encounter the extraordinary everywhere. They’ll be able to:

Witness current and new African animals roaming and thriving in wild, naturalistic habitats

Take in breathtaking vistas from unique vantage points on elevated shaded pathways

Wind their way through the Zoo’s waters and wild spaces with selfguided kayak and boat tours

Each enthralling experience will strengthen the bonds and memories that lead to a conservation-minded life.

We’re going beyond in our partnership with nature, providing the highest levels of care and best-in-class habitats for every animal under our watch.

OUR ALL - NEW AFRICA EXPERIENCE

Transforming 30% of our 23 wild acres

ISLAND VILLAGE

OASIS VISITOR PLAZA

We will rebuild 30% of our 23 wild acres, making this the largest expansion in Zoo history.

We will create up-close animal experiences that will stay with guests forever.

We will revitalize our waterways with an innovative, interactive aquatic ecosystem throughout the Zoo.

We will elevate animal care to new levels, starting with state-of-the art habitats.

SAVANNA

RIVER CROSSING

Island Village

Where animals and imaginations can run wild.

Dive deep into the heart of Africa at the vibrant Island Village – the future home of some of the diverse African wildlife already residing at the Zoo. New habitats will mimic their native homes and encourage natural behaviors.

At the center of the village will be a striking and colorful rondavel – a traditional circular African dwelling – inviting guests in for a cooling respite plus intimate encounters with our lemurs. Just outside, kids can imagine their own African adventures as they climb among their new lemur friends.

Guests will also embark on aquatic adventures with kayaks and boats, exploring Africa from the waters of Baker Lake.

FEATURED ANIMALS

• Ring-tailed lemurs

• Red ruffed lemurs

• Giant Aldabra tortoises

• African leopard tortoises

• Southern ground hornbills

Hear Africa’s musical rhythms along with the calls of the wild.

Guests can embark on an aquatic tour of Africa.

Island Village

State-of-the-art new habitats for our current African animals

Intimate animal encounters with lemurs and giant tortoises

Family adventure area where kids can play and climb like lemurs

Riverine

Encounter the cute and captivating. PALM BEACH ZOO & CONSERVATION SOCIETY

Island Village leads you into a serene habitat edged on the north by a wide river and on the south by rocky uplands inhabited by an African Porcupine family, sleek Serval cats and colonies of meerkats.

FEATURED ANIMALS

• Meerkats

• African Porcupines

• Servals

Like all the Zoo’s animals, our popular African porcupines will thrive in their new homes.

Riverine

Waterside

NatureScape adventure zones for kids of all ages

Tunnels for close-up views of the meerkat burrows

Kayaking and boat tours on Baker Lake and hidden rivers

River Crossing

Elevating every experience.

A trek across an elevated boardwalk takes you from Riverine into River Crossing in the very heart of the Zoo. The boardwalk will traverse Baker Lake, creating a relaxing respite with cool breezes and more picturesque views of the giraffes, while countless native fish, turtles and birds will be seen in and around the sparkling waters of the lake.

Along with enjoying the beauty of the Zoo’s water ecosystem, guests will discover more about local water conservation and what we can do to help protect the wildlife that inhabit our waterways.

FEATURED ANIMALS

• Native fish

• Native turtles

• Native birds

A natural, sustainable water filtration system will serve as a model for zoological parks everywhere.

clean serene waters

Living Water

The wildest waterfront views in Palm Beach.

Just being near a body of water makes people and animals happier and healthier. On that, the science is crystal clear.

An important part of our bold vision includes

We will filter water through our own ecosystem with natural processes using plants, substrates and simple mechanical systems.

With a transformation of the system, pristine waters

Savanna

Be closer. See further.

The thriving, expansive grasslands of Savanna at the Zoo will serve as a haven for a herd of giraffes, a flock of flamingos and a family of cheetahs. It will feel more like a visit to Africa than Florida.

Giraffes will roam freely, foraging, exploring and playing. Flamingos will mingle, parade and preen, at times seemingly choreographed. Cheetahs will thrill visitors, showcasing their speed and agility throughout the day.

The Savanna will be one of the key areas for incredible up-close encounters. Zoo guests will be able to:

Ride through the Savanna on a Jeep tour, our wildest adventure yet

Hand-feed the giraffes, coming eye-to-eye with these amazing, immense animals

Take part in VIP experiences with the powerful, yet docile, cheetahs

FEATURED ANIMALS

• Giraffes

• Cheetahs

• Flamingos

Each species is a masterpiece, a creation assembled with extreme care and genius.

E. O. Wilson

“

Experience the acceleration and agility of our cheetahs as they navigate rocky outcroppings.

Savanna

A variety of naturalistic habitats for our herd of giraffes to roam

Heat relief, food, drinks and retail at Savanna Lodge

Giraffe barn to showcase animal care, including giraffe neck massages

Where connection and conservation meet.

Oasis Visitor Plaza

Where the journey through the Zoo ends, important work begins. Blending stunning architecture with a wild home for the Golden Lion Tamarins, the Oasis Visitor Plaza design delivers a critical final impression.

Through inspirational touchpoints, everyone is invited to join us with their thoughts, pledges and personal actions to support the Zoo and wildlife conservation. Whether it is simply buying sustainable gifts in the shop, creating a bee hotel or joining us in the field, the Oasis will remind guests that our collective action can create the change that is needed to save our planet.

Changing

minds to change the future.

One-of-a-kind experiences will inspire conservation action.

Oasis Visitor Plaza

“Wow” moments to instill guests with a desire to make a difference

“The Wild” Gift Shop featuring meaningful souvenirs and gifts

Final up-close animal habitat to leave an indelible last impression

Zoo growth drives economic growth.

The Zoo is an economic engine that currently provides $21 million in annual financial impact to Palm Beach County. With the expansion, attendance is projected to grow to 540,000+ annually, significantly increasing our economic impact.

Community culture depends on us. Communities need cultural institutions to thrive and attract new people. The Zoo will become an even more exceptional experience, setting standards for visitor engagement among zoos throughout the world.

We provide unmatched opportunity and accessibility.

The Zoo plays a vital role in connecting everyone in the community to nature. We are dedicated to supporting Title 1 school students and underserved families through initiatives like Wildlife Conservation Academy, “Kids Free” days, and free admittance for non-profits. Our commitment to inclusivity will extend to guests of all abilities with new spaces that allow unprecedented accessibility.

Our community needs a strong zoo.

Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature.

It will never fail you.

“

Frank Lloyd Wright

Science settles it: the Zoo is good for you. Around here, we call that Vitamin Z.

The closer people can get, the further our impact can go.

By attracting new guests from Palm Beach County and beyond, the Zoo’s influence will broaden and combine with other AZA zoos in our quest to save wildlife.

According to the AZA, over 181 million people visit U.S. zoos and aquariums each year – more visitors than NFL, NHL, NBA, and MLB attendance combined.

Supporters have the confidence of knowing they are contributing to a massive and well-organized conservation effort.

Tourism is Palm Beach County’s richest economic generator, and we are one of its top tourist attractions. The Zoo’s goal is to become the top attraction in the region. Our projections show admissions will almost double within the next five years. Robust growth in attendance means robust growth in tax revenues that support our community.

Our transformational and economic impact will be profound.

In effect, for every $1 that is invested in the Zoo, we will return $3 back to the community.

our partnership with nature. And the world.

us

The transformation of Palm Beach Zoo is a rare opportunity for us to set a standard for all zoos. We will be a cornerstone of a thriving community, and the Zoo will secure an even more influential place in the world. You will be a part of an intentional effort that will have an enduring impact on nature, wildlife and people.

You will help create unprecedented opportunities for humans and animals.

Help us reach our goal of $75 million.

We are creating one of the most innovative zoos on the planet with world-class experiences to inspire every guest to help save nature.

“

Michele Kessler

Give like wild so they

Our vision for the Zoo is indeed bold, as the name Bold Vision suggests, and we need the collective support of committed donors and our entire community to amplify our purpose on this planet.

We aim to transform the Zoo into a model for zoos worldwide, where all children - including those from Title I schools and underserved communities - have new opportunities to interact with nature.

Through expansive, world-class habitats, visitors will be enchanted by animals happily roaming, foraging, hunting and playing, as we foster profound connections between humans and wildlife.

Our ultimate goal is to create unforgettable guest experiences that inspire empathy for the natural world and ignite actions to save it. Please join us in our vital mission by making a gift today.

can live like wild.

Darla, our charming Southern Ground Hornbill, often gives gifts to show appreciation and affection. Be like Darla. Give today.

Many thanks to our Board of Directors and Leadership Council

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Officers

Michele Kessler, Chairman

Luis J. Fernandez, Vice Chairman

Gary E. Krieger, Treasurer

Dr. Daniel J. Comerford III, Secretary

Ruth Baum

Maura Ziska Christu

Guillermo Perez-Vargas

Mitchell Quain

Matt Valle

Members

Kane K. Baker

Marilyn Beuttenmuller, Esq.

Whitney Wood Bylin

Jonathan Clay

Julia B. Connors

Dale Coudert

Caroline Dean

Deborah Dauman

Robert B. Dunkin II

Mei Sze Greene

Susanna P. Hager

Candace Hamm

Josh McGraw

George F. Merck

Carole Moran

Stephen E. Myers

Thomas C. Quick

Sandra S. Rooney

LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

Michele Kessler, Co-Chairman

Thomas C. Quick, Co-Chairman

Jonathan Clay

Dr. Daniel J. Comerford III

Deborah Dauman

Caroline Dean

Matt Valle

Appendix

Attendance Growth

With the completion of the master plan investments, attendance modeling indicates a 50%+ growth from the Zoo’s historical peak total attendance levels. The Zoo’s attendance will climb from its pre-COVID levels of 360,000 to roughly 540,000 visitors by the end of the projection period.

COVID

A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 800.435.7352 WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. REG. #CH970.

New Revenue

In addition to the incremental revenues generated from attendance growth and price increases, the capital investments will create opportunities for significant new revenue channels with each phase. This includes animal feedings/interactions, VIP experiences, and growth in retail sales resulting from increased capacity in our new “Saving the Wild” shop as well as products related to new charismatic fauna.