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Celebrating World Oceans Day and
What We’ve Achieved Together
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June 8th is World Oceans Day. It is a time to pause, reflect, and celebrate the wonder of our oceans. Whether on shore, near shore, or out on the water, that sense of awe never fades. The ocean’s beauty, power and mystery draw us in, and sparks our desire to protect it.
At O’Neill Sea Odyssey, we see that wonder every day in the eyes of our students. From the sight of humpback whale breaching, to the joy of spotting sea otters tucked into kelp beds, these moments ignite curiosity, connection and love for our marine environment.
As we close out this school year, we’re proud to share our accomplishments, and launch our campaign to fund life-changing ocean education trips for the 2025-26 school year!
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The wonder of the ocean is powerful, but it’s your support that brings it to life.
Through hands-on science aboard our 65-foot catamaran in the Monterey Bay, students connect deeply to the environment. The O’Neill Sea Odyssey experience drives a sense of curiosity, and inspires a desire to protect.
But wonder and passion alone aren’t enough. We need you.
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If you are reading this letter, we know the ocean matters to you. You feel a connection the Monterey Bay. You understand that protecting ocean health, and its habitats, its water quality, its future will require us all.
Donate today because everyone deserves access to the ocean and its wonders!
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Happy World Oceans Day,
Tracey Weiss
Executive Director
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OSO HONORED WITH A BE THE DIFFERENCE AWARD!
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This year our staff and volunteers were honored for their work in Family & Youth Empowerment by the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County. We are grateful to be included with so many deserving individuals and organizations.
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Check out this video highlight of our program!
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2024-25 YEAR HIGHLIGHTS
In our 29th year, O’Neill Sea Odyssey continues to provide access to the Monterey Bay for students from surrounding counties. Many of whom have their first on the water experience as they leave the Santa Cruz harbor on the Team O’Neill catamaran.
“Thank you, great experience for the kiddos. A lot of students’ first time in a boat and or first time seeing the ocean. Students are so excited to see everything. Will definitely recommend to other teachers.” -Creekside Elementary
“I feel the program is well organized with a wealth of information for students. The information was also simplified for students who may not have understood all the content. This was a great experience and my students were engaged the whole time. I appreciate the time that was given to my students.”-Elkhorn Elementary
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STUDENT ACTION PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS
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Project type: Ocean-themed mural with the 3,000 bottle caps collected from the beach & campus cleanup and bottle cap drive
How was it shared: Presented to class/school; shared with family or community; displayed publicly
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Project type: Letters to an Elected Official
What environmental issue(s) did your students address in their letters: Habitat protection and the Endangered Species Act
How was it shared: Sent to California Senators
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PVEF COMMUNITY PARTNER OF THE YEAR: ABBY NEWMAN
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On May 21st Pajaro Valley Educational Foundation honored it’s community partners. We are thrilled to announce that our Program Manager, Abby Newman, was honored for her unwavering dedication, her tireless commitment, and generosity of time, talent, and heart.
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