It’s Giving Tuesday, and what better way to show your love for the ocean than through a directed donation! Here, we’ve rounded up a few of our favourite ocean non-profits to help you find one that resonates with you!

Center for Whale Research

Since 1976 the Center for Whale Research on San Juan Island near Victoria has been studying the southern resident killer whale population. It has created a 45-year dataset on the behaviour, health and social dynamics of this critically endangered population. This information is needed more than ever in light of recent declines in population numbers, changes in seasonal movements and reduction in availability of their primary prey, chinook salmon. Your support will help CWR continue its work and be untiring advocates for the survival of these beloved whales.

Sea Shepherd Conservation Society

If you want to see your money going to support direct action initiatives, then look no further! “Neptune’s Navy” has been saving whales, seals and all sorts of other critters since 1977. Current campaigns all over the globe include efforts to save the vaquita, anti-poaching operations, protection of endangered sea turtles, ending cetacean captivity, and furthering scientific research, as well as hurricane relief and support for management of the protected areas of the Galapagos Islands. Closer to home, Operation Virus Hunter provides a research vessel for independent scientists studying the effects of fish farms on wild salmon populations in BC waters.

Surfrider Foundation

Started in 1984, Surfrider Foundation cleans up the oceans one beach at a time. It’s a great way to get outside, meet like-minded people and give back to your community. Find your local chapter here.

 

 

Pacific Salmon Foundation

Wild Pacific salmon are food for endangered resident killer whales! They’re a keystone species in BC, supporting ecosystems, coastal communities and cultures, and more than $1 billion in economic activity. The Pacific Salmon Foundation is dedicated to the conservation and restoration of wild Pacific salmon and their natural habitats in BC and the Yukon.

Ocean Conservancy

Ocean Conservancy is all about #OceanOptimism and is based on science, policy and partnership. Their work spans a variety of topics including ocean climate and acidification, sustainable fisheries, reduction of plastics, coastal planning and restoring the Arctic.

Take 3

We all have the power to make a difference. Take 3 builds on this idea to give people some simple tools to create positive change, and then connects them to a larger movement. When you go for a walk, take three pieces of rubbish with you when you leave, and voila! You have made the world a better place!

Wyland Foundation

What better way to get people to care about the ocean that to teach them about it! The Wyland Foundation encourages environmental awareness through education programs, public arts projects and community events.

World Fisheries Trust

World Fisheries Trust provides local environmental education throughout Greater Victoria, and also works with small-scale fisheries in Latin America to alleviate poverty and develop food security with Indigenous communities. Projects include Olympia oysters in the Gorge waterway, hands-on ocean education featuring a mobile seawater aquarium and school outreach, and the Gorge Waterway Nature House.

Sea Legacy

Join renowned photographers, filmmakers and storytellers to learn about the wonders of, and threats to, the world’s oceans. Help spread the word and be a part of projects that support healthy oceans. Using modern technology and the power of social media, Sea Legacy connects us in hope for the future.

Porpoise Conservation Society

The Porpoise Conservation Society focuses on education, research and conservation of the world’s greatest small cetacean—the porpoise! With only seven species worldwide—two of which are found in the Salish Sea—porpoises are often overlooked for their flashier, larger and louder relatives, dolphins and whales. With several populations listed as endangered, vulnerable or critically endangered, the Porpoise Conservation Society is helping to raise the profile of the porpoise.

Please remember: whether you donate to a non-profit or not, there are plenty of things you can do in your daily lives to help the ocean! Find out more on what you can do to help.

Blog updated Nov. 30, 2021