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Development: Inspiration on the Horizon
By Morgan Purvis, Corporate Giving Officer
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has big dreams to be bold and revolutionary. We want to welcome Florida visitors as we endeavor to become one of the best zoos in the country while doubling down on our commitment to environmental education and global conservation.
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These dreams are closer than you may think. So how are we going to get there?
We just announced a five-year, $50 million campaign to make significant improvements to our organization. REZOOVENATION: The Campaign to Inspire will expand wellness-inspired habitats for animal care, grow conservation initiatives, offer enhanced educational spaces and introduce new species.
The first phase of REZOOVENATION includes the construction of Manatee River, being supported first by $3 million from J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver, Honorary Chairs of this campaign. Florida’s most beloved and charismatic species will greet our Members and guests entering the Zoo from their new exhibit, paying homage to the vibrant natural world surrounding North Florida. This new first-impression habitat will solidify the Zoo’s position as a leader in Florida wildlife conservation and animal wellness.
Other planned improvements through REZOOVENATION include a new lion habitat with a scenic overlook, an expanded and immersive elephant exhibit and the addition of orangutans in a space with extensive room to climb.
At its core, REZOOVENATION is about inspiring the future. We would not be where we are today without the help of supporters like you—and we look forward to sharing new, inspiring experiences among our animals and gardens with you and your loved ones in the future.
Our goal is to raise $5 million per year from private sources, which will be matched for another $5 million per year thanks to the support of Mayor Lenny Curry and Jacksonville City Council. To learn more about the campaign and giving, visit jacksonvillezoo.org/rezoovenation
