Meet Mystery: Mystery’s Not So Mysterious After All…

Mystery is a laid-back soul who prefers the quiet life. You’ll often find him snuggled up in a hammock or with a few cozy blankets in the middle of his outdoor habitat, enjoying what his caregivers affectionately call his daily "picnic/Zen meditation" time.


Raised alongside Sha Sha in California, these two have remained close companions. Whether they’re “reading” magazines side by side or grooming one another, their bond is strong and comforting. Mystery also gets along well with older males like Ewok, Josh, and Billy, though he’s still the lowest-ranking member of the group.


To get attention, Mystery uses a unique method: he makes a soft clicking sound and shakes his head back and forth until someone notices him. It’s a move his caregivers know well, especially when he’s asking for a drink from the hose while watching them clean!

Mystery loves fresh fruits (especially grapes), veggies, nuts, seeds, and browse... though truth be told, he loves all his food! During meals, he prefers to keep to himself and be an independent observer rather than join in any hustle or bustle.


Learn more about Mystery at https://centerforgreatapes.org/chimpanzee/mystery/


Volunteer Program Enhancements:

Embracing Technology for a Better Experience

At the Center for Great Apes, we are continually working to create a more engaging, efficient, and supportive environment for our volunteers, and we’re excited to announce several new enhancements to our Volunteer Program that reflect this commitment.


To begin, we’ve launched a brand-new Volunteer Management Portal designed to simplify and enrich the volunteer experience. Through this user-friendly platform, volunteers can now easily sign up for available shifts, automatically track service hours, and access key updates and resources in one convenient place. For those looking to join our team, the portal also streamlines the application and onboarding process, making it easier than ever for new volunteers to get started.


In addition to the portal, we’ve integrated a comprehensive Learning Management System (LMS) into our training program. New volunteers can now complete a self-paced, online orientation before stepping on-site, which saves valuable time while ensuring a solid foundation of knowledge about our mission, operations, and safety practices. For existing volunteers, the LMS will offer ongoing training modules and skill-building opportunities, empowering everyone to grow in their roles and deepen their contribution to the Center.


We’ve also added a Volunteer Spotlight section within the portal. In this space, volunteers can learn about one another, celebrate each other’s contributions, and stay connected, even if their paths don’t cross during shifts. This new feature helps foster a greater sense of community and connection among our dedicated volunteer team.


Additionally, the portal allows us to communicate more efficiently, sharing real-time updates, important announcements, and helpful information directly through the platform. This ensures all volunteers have access to the latest news and can refer back to it at any time.


These enhancements are just the beginning. We’re committed to continuously improving the volunteer experience and are grateful for the incredible work each of our volunteers contributes to our mission.

Volunteer Spotlight

Cesnie has been a dedicated volunteer at the Center for Great Apes for over two years, focusing on general maintenance and groundskeeping.


Inspired by her very first visit, Cesnie enjoys helping maintain the sanctuary’s beauty and cherishes the opportunity to see the orangutans. She’s formed special connections with several apes, including Sandra, Hanna, Pumpkin, and Cahaya.


A retired professional, Cesnie enjoys yard work and raising chickens in her free time and describes herself as dependable, energetic, and caring.

It May Feel Like Fall Elsewhere... But Not Here

While some are already dreaming of cooler fall days, it’s still full-on summer here in Florida, and the heat is lingering.


Our apes, especially our older residents like Popi, still need relief. And we’re doing everything we can to keep them comfortable with fans, wading tubs, frozen treats, and extra hydration.



If you haven’t had a chance to give yet, there’s still time to help. Your gift today will go straight to work keeping the apes cool, safe, and cared for through these final sweltering weeks.


Only 5 Tickets Remain for International Orangutan Day

Join us Tuesday, August 19th, for a special International Orangutan Day event at the Center for Great Apes!



Take a guided walk through the sanctuary to visit our orangutan habitats, hear stories from their caregivers, and enjoy:

  • A special Orangutan Talk with our Ape Care Supervisor
  • An educational tour focused on our orangutans
  • Limited-edition merchandise and artwork
  • Raffle prizes and surprises


Tour Time: 10:00 AM (only 5 spots remain!)

Cost: $50 per person | Ages 15+

Employment Opportunities

We are seeking passionate individuals who share our commitment to the well-being of these remarkable great apes. We are currently seeking:


  • Great Ape Caregiver


If you possess the skills and experience we are seeking (or know someone who does), we encourage you to apply today! Please visit our employment page on the website for more details on these positions and the application process.

August 19, 2025 - International Orangutan Day

October 7, 2025 - Giving Day for Apes

October 11, 2025 - Ape-ology: In the Field (Healthcare & Training)

November 8, 2025 - Art with the Apes

December 6, 2025 - Holiday Open House for Members & Guests

 
 

Other Ways To Help

Donate

Membership

Wishlist

Monthly Giving

Planned Giving

 

Thank you for supporting the Center for Great Apes!

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