The 25th Anniversary Volunteer Celebration of Shanghai Roots & Shoots has come to a successful close

In the beginning of September, the warm summer colors gradually began to fade. However, members of  Shanghai Roots & Shoots, dressed in green, gathered at the Shanghai Zoo to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Shanghai Roots & Shoots.

The anniversary event started with volunteers receiving Roots & Shoots bracelets for entry to the Science and Education Museum located in the zoo. They were then divided into five groups according to their years of service to play the “Planet of the Apes” ice-breaker game. Through these fun interactions, these unfamiliar strangers gradually warmed up to each other and friendships bloomed.

Then, came the “YES I DO” quiz event. Volunteers were placed into teams and had to work, and think, together to solve a variety of difficult quiz questions. With glorious prizes on the line, each group put in full effort and plenty of enthusiasm to be the winning team.

After plenty of laughter and joy, then came the “Gorilla Attraction” session. Volunteer members, new and old, gathered together to tell their favorite stories of their time at Roots and Shoots. The sharing of photos and sentimental items all evoked precious memories from members, memories which, with no doubt, will continue to be made through Roots and Shoots. 

After a brief, but delicious, tea break, the event then moved on to the “Ape Avenue” award ceremony. This much-anticipated event recognizes members for their outstanding work and contribution to Roots and Shoots. Awarded with certificates and 25th anniversary memorabilia, recipients posed for photos as a way to remember this moment.

In the evening, the fun “Box of Love Monkeys” enrichment workshop began. The purpose of this workshop was to educate members on “enrichment toys”, which are toys given to rescued primates to provide enrichment in their lives and stimulation. Volunteer Zhang Qing helped explain and demonstrate the production methods of various enrichment toys. Then, volunteers worked together to design their own enrichment toys to give to rescued primates, using recycled material such as abandoned fire hoses. Afterwards, with the help of staff, volunteers were given the opportunity to explore the secret lives of these animals together. 

Twenty-five years can go by in a flash. We share the same roots and dreams and have been with each other all the way. From the humble beginnings of our group to the thriving charity organization it is today, our progress wouldn’t have been possible without the continued support from our generous community. The achievements of Shanghai Roots&Shoots don’t just belong to us, but also to the various organizations, businesses, and schools who assist in our work, not to mention, the enthusiastic and capable volunteers. Your support and dedication to our cause is truly unforgettable, so, from the people at Roots and Shoots, we say “Thank You” from the bottom of our hearts.

We hope to see you next year!