Brevard Zoo receives $2 million from Ron Jon Surf Shop for aquarium center Rendering: The zoo will use the money to build a beach-themed entrance complex to save coastal ecosystems. (Brevard Zoo /Brevard Zoo)
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — The Brevard Zoo received a gift this week from Ron Jon’s founder to build an Aquarium and Conservation Center in Port Canaveral.
Ron and Lynne DiMenna donated $1 million from the retail company Ron Jon Surf Shop and $1 million from their foundation, Surfing’s Evolution and Preservation.
The zoo will use the money to build a beach-themed entrance complex to save coastal ecosystems.
The future aquarium will be located along the Banana River, inspiring connections between people and Florida’s marine life.
Brevard Zoo to develop fundraising campaign to build new, world-class aquarium $31 million is already committed to the project that is expected to generate 1,000 jobs and attract half-a-million visitors to the area every year.
When guests enter the area, they will see the interactive dune exhibit that represents the beach mouse conservation program at Perdido Key.
There will also be a gallery, a manatee critical care center, Shark Flats, Ray Encounter, Alligator Alley, Otter Run and a sea turtle nesting exhibit.
Brevard Zoo marks $67 million of its $100 million “Our Legacy Campaign” with this new gift. The program launched in December 2021.
Groundbreaking is expected for the fall of 2024, and Brevard Zoo plans to open the center in 2027.
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Brevard Zoo to develop fundraising campaign to build new, world-class aquarium $31 million is already committed to the project that is expected to generate 1,000 jobs and attract half-a-million visitors to the area every year.
Brevard Zoo Fish Camp rendering
Brevard Zoo to develop fundraising campaign to build new, world-class aquarium $31 million is already committed to the project that is expected to generate 1,000 jobs and attract half-a-million visitors to the area every year.
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Brevard Zoo announces passing of longtime resident Giraffe ‘Rafiki’ One of the Brevard Zoo’s original five giraffes was humanely euthanized Sunday due to age-related medical issues. (Brevard Zoo)
Brevard Zoo announces passing of longtime resident Giraffe ‘Rafiki’ “Rafiki” was 25 years old, far exceeding the median lifespan of approximately 16 years for male giraffes in facilities accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. (Brevard Zoo)
Brevard Zoo announces passing of longtime resident Giraffe ‘Rafiki’ Rafiki arrived at the zoo in 2003 as one of the first to be featured in their new Expedition Africa habitat. (Brevard Zoo)
Brevard Zoo announces passing of longtime resident Giraffe ‘Rafiki’ Rafiki was known for greeting his keepers each morning and following them around the habitat. (Brevard Zoo)
Brevard Zoo announces passing of longtime resident Giraffe ‘Rafiki’ “His magnetic personality never wavered, bringing joy to our staff, volunteers and thousands of visiting guests for nearly 20 years,” Brevard Zoo Deputy Director Jon Brangan said. “He will be profoundly missed by our zoo family and our entire community.” (Brevard Zoo)
Brevard Zoo announces passing of longtime resident Giraffe ‘Rafiki’ Rafiki eating leaves. He was one of the zoo's first giraffes to participate in voluntary hoof trims and other care, contributing to how they cares for other giraffes. (Brevard Zoo)
Brevard Zoo announces passing of longtime resident Giraffe ‘Rafiki’ Rafiki celebrating his 25th birthday. His legacy will continue at Brevard Zoo, where his 2-year-old son Mapenzi will remain to become their new breeding male giraffe. (Brevard Zoo)
Brevard Zoo announces passing of longtime resident Giraffe ‘Rafiki’ “There is no doubt his legacy will live on, in his descendants, in our keepers, in our guests and volunteers, and in the amazing care we provide to all our animals,” Africa Platform keeper Alyssa Simon said. “He will be greatly missed.” (Brevard Zoo)
Brevard Zoo announces passing of longtime resident Giraffe ‘Rafiki’ Rafiki and his offspring. In all, Rafiki has sired more than a dozen calves that reside at other Association of Zoos and Aquariums facilities, including a great-grandcalf. (Brevard Zoo)
Brevard Zoo announces passing of longtime resident Giraffe ‘Rafiki’ A memorial area is available near the front entrance of the Zoo where guests with special memories of Rafiki can share them with the staff. (Brevard Zoo)
Brevard Zoo announces passing of longtime resident Giraffe ‘Rafiki’ Rafiki celebrating his 25th birthday. "His long life with us is a testament to the innovative care provided by our veterinary staff and his keepers," a statement from the zoo announcing his passing said. (Brevard Zoo)
