The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park’s second annual CARE on the Coast fundraiser generated more than $100,000 to support sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation efforts along the Gulf Coast.
- Hundreds gathered at the park on Saturday, April 26, for the conservation-focused event featuring live music, local food vendors, animal encounters and a special dolphin presentation.
“We are overwhelmed by the generosity and enthusiasm shown by our community,” said Patrick Berry, director of the Gulfarium CARE Center. “Every dollar raised goes directly to helping our patients, from hatchlings entangled in fishing line to adult turtles battling life-threatening injuries.”
Since its founding in 2015, the CARE Center has rescued, rehabilitated and released hundreds of sea turtles annually. The funds will help provide life-saving care, treatments and public education about protecting marine ecosystems.
Attendees enjoyed all-inclusive food and beverages while participating in a silent auction to benefit the center’s mission. The evening highlighted the ongoing work of the CARE team to save endangered sea turtles and provide medical treatment for injured marine life.
- Valparaiso Coca-Cola served as the event’s title sponsor, with additional support from Blues Angels Music, Saltwater Restaurant Group and Okaloosa Gas.
The CARE Center operates as part of the Gulfarium CARE Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to coastal conservation through marine animal rescue and rehabilitation.
Visitors can see the CARE Center and its patients with general admission to the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Tax-deductible donations can be made online here or via their Amazon Wishlist.
