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At 26 years old, Mowgli is still a playful youngster at heart. One of his favorite pastimes is anything to do with water. Whether he’s splashing around in a big tub, running through the sprinkler, or using the hose to spray water across his feet, Mowgli can turn an ordinary summer afternoon into a joyful splash-fest. His enthusiasm is contagious, just watching him play brings smiles to everyone nearby.
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Mowgli’s love of water play is more than just fun; it’s also an important part of his enrichment. On hot Florida days, cool water activities give him both relief from the heat and a way to express his lively, curious nature. Along with climbing, swinging, and exploring toys, these activities keep Mowgli mentally engaged and physically active, helping him thrive at the sanctuary.
What makes Mowgli special is his zest for life. He approaches play with the same excitement you might expect from a youngster, showing us all that joy doesn’t fade with age. His favorite moments, splashing, squirting, and rolling in the water, remind us that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the sweetest.
| | Save the Date - Giving Day for Apes! | | |
Get ready, our biggest online fundraiser of the year is almost here! Giving Day for Apes happens on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, and we’re counting on our wonderful supporters to help the Center for Great Apes shine.
Starting September 16, you can make your gift early at www.givingdayforapes.org. Then, on October 7, we’ll join sanctuaries across the world in a thrilling 24-hour competition for leaderboard prizes and bonus challenges. Every donation, big or small, brings us closer to winning extra funds for the orangutans and chimpanzees who call CGA home.
Follow us on social media for insider updates, special challenges, and extra opportunities to boost your impact. Together, we can make this the most successful Giving Day yet!
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Art with the Apes: From Disney Magic
to Jethro's Canvas
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On Saturday, November 8th, the Center for Great Apes will host a one-of-a-kind event that blends creativity, storytelling, and inspiration from some of our most beloved residents. Art with the Apes is more than just an art class, it’s a chance to learn from an accomplished artist with an extraordinary history while spending the day immersed in the world of great apes.
Our special guest instructor is Sharon K. Vincent Smith, a former Walt Disney Co. Ink & Paint Artist whose career spanned over three decades. Sharon’s love for wildlife and the arts began in childhood, inspired by programs like Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom and Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color. That passion eventually led her into the animation industry, where she worked on commercials, television projects, and full-length feature films—including Disney’s Oliver & Company and The Little Mermaid.
When Disney opened its animation studio at the then-new Disney-MGM Studios (now Hollywood Studios) in 1989, Sharon was among the talented crew chosen to help bring the art form to life for audiences. Not only did she work behind the scenes, but she also became part of the attraction, training artists and engaging park guests as she painted and preserved the timeless tradition of cel animation. Sharon has shared that one of her greatest rewards was seeing the spark of inspiration in young people who watched her at work—proof that creativity has the power to connect us all.
Now retired, Sharon continues to share her artistry and passion for wildlife. And on November 8th, she’s bringing that magic to the Center for Great Apes.
During this special event, Sharon will guide participants through an art lesson on how to draw orangutan resident Jethro, who will serve as the day’s “art muse.” Following the lesson, guests will take a guided tour of the sanctuary, meet Jethro and his companion Sandra, and hear from their caregiver. To top it all off, Jethro and Sandra will create their very own original painting! This unique artwork will be given away to one lucky participant as a door prize, with additional raffle opportunities available.
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Event Details
Date: Saturday, November 8th
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Space: Limited to 20 participants
Ages: 15 and up
Price: $100
Whether you’re an experienced artist or have never picked up a pencil before, this event is open to all skill levels. With Sharon’s guidance and the inspiration of Jethro and Sandra, you’ll leave with new skills, treasured memories, and a deeper appreciation for the incredible residents at the sanctuary.
Space is limited and expected to fill quickly! Reserve your spot today for this unforgettable opportunity that brings together art and wildlife in a meaningful way.
| | Your Chance to Visit the Sanctuary | | |
There’s nothing quite like seeing the orangutans and chimpanzees at the Center for Great Apes and experiencing firsthand the love, care, and enrichment they receive each day. Now's your chance! The fall program dates have just been released, and registration is officially open!
Special Experiences This Fall
This season, we’re opening our gates for a limited number of unforgettable experiences:
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Ape-ology: In the Field Workshops – Dive deeper into the fascinating world of apes while learning from our expert caregivers.
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Afternoon with the Apes Tours – Enjoy a guided stroll through the sanctuary and hear the incredible stories of the orangutans and chimpanzees who now call CGA home.
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Educational Programs & More – From art to ape enrichment, our fall line-up is filled with opportunities to learn, connect, and be inspired.
Spaces always fill quickly, so don’t wait! Explore the full schedule and reserve your spot today at our Upcoming Events page.
Save the Date – Holiday Open House
And mark your calendar for the highlight of the year: our Holiday Open House for members and their guests on Saturday, December 6, 2025. Invitations will be mailed in late October, and registration will open at the same time. This beloved annual tradition is the perfect way to celebrate the season with the apes—and with your sanctuary family.
Plan Your Visit Today
Whether you’re coming for an intimate tour, a workshop, or the Holiday Open House, every visit helps support the lifelong care of our great ape residents. To learn more about membership and exclusive visiting opportunities, visit our Plan Your Visit page
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Become a Day Sponsor and have the opportunity to help provide birthday/anniversary enrichment and special treats as well as
sponsoring the day's diet and care for your chosen ape.
Click below to see who still needs a Day Sponsor!
| | Other Ways To Help the Apes | | | | |
