SeaKeepers & Community: Research Driven Paths to Greater Impact

SeaKeepers Efforts The SeaKeepers organization offers various programs, including a citizen science initiative and volunteer opportunities. Currently, the primary way to volunteer with SeaKeepers is through beach clean-ups, which have proven to be very effective. While this is the main method of directly engaging with SeaKeepers, the organization also makes significant efforts toward ocean conservation through their expeditions.

This video showcases one of the International SeaKeepers beach clean-ups, this one in partnership with the Alexander Montessori School to clean up Key Biscayne.

Enhancing Awareness and Reach Through Art SeaKeepers, whose primary focus is ocean conservation, raises awareness about the importance of protecting our oceans through partnerships and volunteer efforts. They spotlight climate change and its impact on marine environments through ongoing initiatives. Expanding into creative spaces, such as the art community, offers a powerful way to visually communicate their mission and reach audiences who may not typically engage with environmental content.

In seeking to expand their outreach and grow their visibility, SeaKeepers can benefit from engaging with communities beyond traditional environmental spaces. Our research identified the art community as a promising avenue for engagement. By collaborating with digital and traditional artist, especially those focused on nature and conservation, SeaKeepers can introduce ocean conservation to broader and more diverse groups in creative ways.

Improving Accessibility to Create Impact Through their programs, SeaKeepers provides access to places and experiences that most people would not otherwise be able to visit or even know about. One of their most accessible initiatives is their volunteer program, which allows anyone to participate in weekly beach cleanups and contribute to a cleaner community. By expanding into virtual formats, SeaKeepers can further promote their cause to individuals who may not have access to in-person events. This would make their resources more accessible and spark interest among a wider audience, interest that could translate into meaningful action in support of their mission for a cleaner ocean.

One of the main things important for non-profits is how accessible they are to the public, whether it be their programs or reaching out to them for interest, that is why an improvement suggested to SeaKeepers is to expand their programs to gaming platforms such as Minecraft.

Fostering Long-Term Advocacy SeaKeepers can expand participation to these programs initiatives to volunteers through a tiered system. The more hours that a volunteer engages and build trust with SeaKeepers can allow them to become more important members of the organization. Additonally, the Green Marine Program could benefit from targeted expansion.Expanding the Green Marine Program could also engage more yacht owners through eco-focused activities that reduce their carbon footprint and promote conservation-minded boating.

SeaKeepers has two notable programs that aim to inspire others to pursue a greener way of living: their Educational Outreach Program and Green Marine Program. While these programs target different audiences, they share the same goal, to educate and encourage awareness of ocean conservation. By fostering a personal connection to the cause, SeaKeepers hopes to inspire individuals to become long-term advocates for the environment.