Coral Restoration Foundation is gearing up for its 10th annual fundraising gala at Ocean Reef Club on Saturday, March 2. This gala plays a pivotal role in the ongoing efforts to save and restore imperilled coral reefs in Florida and beyond.
In the aftermath of the devastating 2023 mass bleaching event, CRF is more committed than ever to coral restoration efforts in Florida. With the future of these vital ecosystems hanging in the balance, never has the financial support generated at Raise the Reef 2024 been more crucial. The funds raised during this event will not only aid in local restoration endeavours but will also contribute to the development of cutting-edge tools that will drive reef restoration work on a global scale, and to sustaining the foundation’s world-class education and public outreach program.
Guests attending the gala will be treated to an evening filled with cocktails, dinner and auctions. This year, the silent auction is open to everyone, not just attendees, offering a fantastic opportunity for all to contribute to CRF’s mission.
A highlight of the evening will be a keynote speech delivered by marine scientist and renowned underwater filmmaker Shireen Rahimi. Rahimi’s work is a powerful fusion of science and art, where she employs her academic expertise to narrate environmental stories. Through her lens, she crafts tales that are rooted in scientific research, enriched with emotional depth and driven by relatable characters.
Rahimi’s specialty lies in using underwater cinematography and photography to shed light on the profound impacts of climate change and human activities on tropical coral reef ecosystems. Her work also emphasizes the connection between these ecosystems and the communities that depend on them for their livelihoods.
For people who want to participate, but can’t make the gala, CRF is offering sponsorship and underwriting opportunities.
The silent auction kicks off on Saturday, Feb. 24 and runs through Saturday, March 2 at 7 p.m. Local pickup is available for all winning bids.
Text CRF to 56651 to register for the silent auction. (If you have purchased a ticket to the gala, then you are already registered for the silent auction).
Tickets and more information on sponsorship opportunities are at https://www.coralrestoration.org/raise-the-reef-2024.
