Project One Health’s Jacksonville neighborhood teams from Brentwood, Eastside, New Town, and Springfield recently visited Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens for a learning-focused field trip designed to strengthen local programming and create nature experiences for families in the urban core.

The visit gave teams the chance to tour the Zoo and connect with staff about community programs, field trips, and educational resources that could translate into real opportunities for youth and families across each neighborhood.

For several participants, it was their first-ever visit to the Jacksonville Zoo. One aim of Project One Health’s technical assistance outings is to expose program providers to high-quality local experiences they can confidently share with the families they serve. 

“Building awareness of, and comfort in, outdoor and nature-rich spaces is essential as neighborhood teams work to embed more time in nature into their programming – helping reconnect youth to their peers, their community, and the environment,” said Leandra Taylor, Program Manager with Children & Nature Network, a key partner for Project One Health Jax.  

After the exhibit tour, the group held a working session with Zoo staff to explore partnership pathways across each neighborhood. Ideas ranged from educational programs and family field trips to zoo campouts and volunteer opportunities, along with other ways to build recurring engagement over time.

One neighborhood coordinator shared that while she has partnered with the Zoo in the past, this visit introduced her to new programs and resources, and she’s looking forward to expanding that collaboration. The day ended with a shared commitment to follow up and move from ideas to action.

The Project One Health team thanks Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens for their hospitality and collaboration to impact families in Jacksonville.