Folks in California have been enjoying the "Discovering Chimpanzees: The Remarkable World of Jane Goodall" exhibit at the MUZEO in Anaheim, where Roots & Shoots members and staff have hosted fun activities and presentations this summer.

The exhibit, which started June 13 and runs until September 7, features photographic art with panels that transport visitors to Gombe National Park, where Dr. Jane and her research team have carried out their landmark study of chimpanzees. In coordination with the MUZEO, Roots & Shoots has given visitors the opportunity to enjoy presentations, games, face painting, food, music and more, while learning about Dr. Jane's dream of starting a global youth organization. 

"These [Roots & Shoots] activities have made it possible for youth to gain a personal experience that they can take home," said Lisa Hetherington, Roots & Shoots-California Program Resource Associate. "Instead of reading about Dr. Jane and then getting lost in the hands-on activities, they [have] a chance for an explanation through stories and personal interaction."

The MUZEO hosted a Roots & Shoots carnival on July 26, which brought together local Roots & Shoots groups to exchange ideas, talk about projects and take part in games and activities. More than 100 MUZEO visitors also joined the fun, playing recycling games, which taught them what's recyclable and what's not.

Carnival attendees also painted a mural expressing what they think makes the world a happier place to live. Some made "Expect Change" buttons to wear as a reminder of the impact they have on the world.

"My group went to [the] MUZEO today and had an amazing time," said Kat Alexander, leader of Earth Tribe R&S group in Inglewood. "The kids were thrilled to be surrounded by so much of their beloved Dr. Jane. When they saw the Rots & Shoots logo in the corner of the main exhibit, they all squealed in delight!"

To accompany the exhibit, Roots & Shoots-California has organized project displays and presentations. So far, about 540 visitors have stopped by the Roots & Shoots displays and attended Roots & Shoots-organized presentations, like these:

• "Wildlife On Wheels" allowed visitors to meet animal ambassadors who discussed endangered species, habitat destruction and the illegal pet trade.
• "Beautiful Minds: The Parallel Lives of Great Apes and Dolphins" featured guest speaker, Dr. Craig Stanford, author and professor of anthropology and biology at the University of Southern California's Jane Goodall Research Center.
• "Become the change you wish to see!" on September 6 will be the final Roots & Shoots event at the MUZEO. Workshop attendees will learn how to start a Roots & Shoots group and how to make a Giant Peace Dove Puppet.

Find information about events around the world on the Roots & Shoots events calendar.