President’s Corner – December 2024 – The Brevard Zoo: A Rich History of Community and Volunteerism

I’m starting to see all the Facebook posts asking for recommendations of places to go while their guests are in town for the holidays. As I was thinking where I would bring my guests, the Brevard Zoo is the obvious choice. The Brevard Zoo stands today as one of Florida’s most beloved attractions, a vibrant hub for education, conservation, and connection with wildlife. Its journey from vision to reality is a story of generosity, collaboration, and the strong spirit of community.

For those of you who have been in Brevard County for a while know about Viera’s connection to the Brevard Zoo. For those who are unaware, the story of the Brevard Zoo began with the generous donation of land by A. Duda & Sons, Inc., the parent company for The Viera Company. Known for its commitment to community, the Duda family’s gift provided a foundation upon which a dream could be built – a dream of bringing people and wildlife closer together. The donated land offered not only a prime location for the zoo but also a testament to the Duda family’s belief in multiplying and sharing God’s blessings. Their generosity inspired the community and set the stage for what would become a monumental effort to make the zoo a reality.

The dream of creating the Brevard Zoo was championed by the East Coast Zoological Society (ECZS), a passionate group of local citizens and leaders who envisioned a world-class zoo in Brevard County. Founded in the late 1980s, the ECZS played a critical role in rallying community support, securing resources, and organizing the efforts that would eventually lead to the zoo’s establishment. Before the Brevard Zoo moved to its current expansive and picturesque site, the concept of a zoo in the area was a fledgling idea. In the late 1980s, community leaders and visionaries saw the need for a space that could bring wildlife conservation and education to Brevard County. Early efforts involved small, temporary setups and wildlife exhibits aimed at fostering interest and support for a permanent zoo. These initial exhibits were modest but served as proof of concept, demonstrating the community’s enthusiasm and paving the way for larger ambitions. It became clear that Brevard County had both the passion and the potential to create something extraordinary.

The Brevard Zoo’s current location opened in 1994, but it was far from an overnight achievement. What sets this zoo apart is the incredible story of how it was built—by the hands of more than 16,000 volunteers who came together to transform the vision into reality. Construction began with a unique grassroots approach. Volunteers from all walks of life – teachers, retirees, students, and local business owners – donated their time, skills, and energy. They cleared land, poured concrete, built enclosures, and even assembled the first boardwalks that would later become iconic features of the zoo. This massive outpouring of community support is a testament to the collective belief in the project’s importance. The effort wasn’t just about creating a zoo; it was about creating a legacy of learning, conservation, and family connection that would enrich the lives of future generations.

Today, the Brevard Zoo spans over 75 acres and is home to more than 900 animals from around the world. It’s more than a place to view wildlife; it’s a center for conservation, offering programs that protect endangered species and habitats both locally and globally. From restoring oyster reefs in the Indian River Lagoon to advancing global conservation efforts, the Brevard Zoo continues to live out its mission of “Wildlife Conservation through Education and Participation.”

The Brevard Zoo’s success is a shining example of what can be accomplished when a community comes together with a shared vision. From the Duda family’s foundational gift to the tireless efforts of thousands of volunteers, it’s a story of generosity, dedication, and the belief in creating something greater than oneself. As we walk through the zoo’s lush pathways and marvel at its exhibits, we’re reminded that this remarkable place is not just about animals – it’s about people, community, and the power of coming together to achieve the extraordinary.

Hopefully this information has motivated you to bring your friends and family to the Brevard Zoo when they visit your warm, Viera home.

So, until next time, remember, “What this zoo must be worth! It’s the gol-darndest zoo on the face of the earth!” – Dr. Seuss

Eva M. Rey, President
Central Viera Community Association, Inc.