The uplifting story of Tess McToldridge about how ‘i sea, i care’ changed her life is told in detail in our Summer Snapshot. Her story is a testament to the power of our program and why overcoming the impacts of funding cutbacks is so crucial.
Our goal is to raise $120,000. Through your donation, you have the power to give certainty to ‘i sea, i care’ schools and our other programs, which are also at risk of being scaled back as we juggle budgets to ensure our children are not let down.
Tess is now one of our essential volunteers while completing her degree in Marine Science.
In her own words:
“Ever since I became an ‘i sea, i care’ Ambassador with the Dolphin Research Institute in primary school, I have had a passion for pursuing a career in marine science.”
“I joined out of a simple interest in the ocean and marine wildlife, not realising the impact it would have on my life. As someone who struggled in primary school to make friends, being an Ambassador for DRI made me feel part of something important, and the excursions were one of the highlights of my primary school experience.”
“I hope that after finishing my bachelor’s in marine science, I will be able to get a job in marine education and tourism so that I can have an impact on a kid just like me.”
Tess volunteering (right) with kids just like her.
‘i sea, i care’ is a nursery ground for young leaders who inspire others, especially the younger members of their school communities who also want to be Ambassadors.
In 2026, ‘i sea, i care’ will celebrate 25 years and 10,000 Ambassadors, many just like Tess.
It is disheartening that our beloved ‘i sea, i care’ program is at risk following council cutbacks.
With the program now in jeopardy, your support is even more urgent.
Through your donation, you have the power to provide certainty to ‘i sea, i care’ schools and to our other programs at risk of being scaled back.
Together, we will foster a hopeful future for our whales and dolphins (like June with her new calf above) and nurture future generations of young environmental leaders and scientists.
Our promise to you is that we will always strive to achieve a lasting impact on behalf of our donors and the communities we serve.
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