Our Latest News
Volunteers restore the Kalorama Wetland by the Ventura Pier
Youth, their families, and adult volunteers dedicated 720 volunteer hours tot he restoration of the Kalorama Wetland and planted 237 plants of 14 different native species. The habitat restoration project which started in the Fall of 2020 included invasive plant removal, planting and seeding native species, and education youth and adults about the importance of wetland and native habitats in our region and for our coast. The protect concluded in March 15, 2021 after 25 habitat restoration events at the iconic site by the Ventura Pier. Experience the last event through this video.
Our Vision
Our vision is a healthy ocean cared by diverse coastal communities who live in an environmentally responsible manner regardless of native language, economic status, cultural beliefs, or ethnic background because we all share one ocean.
Our Mission
Our Mission is ocean protection through education, conservation, citizen science, and to inspire the next generation of environmental professionals.
462
Educators Trained
18,280
4th-12th grade students immersed in ocean and climate education
449
Project proposals authored by students to reduce their school carbon footprint
10,984
Students sponsored education trips to Channel Islands
479
Hands on conservation and/or citizen science field experiences
$39,500
Disbursed as cash and in kind prizes to students authors of best projects
How We Do It
"The MERITO Academy was an inspirational experience for my students and I when I taught 5th grade level. Without the program, my students would not otherwise have gotten access to such a high quality of science instruction."
Teresa (Terry) Ellingson
The MERITO Foundation is being recognized with the Community Foundation Award at the Water: Take 1 Film Festival
