Casey Sokolovic, Love A Sea Turtle Founder, and Leah Connell, Environmental Biologist and Summer Camp Director, were invited and participated in the 2013 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit held November 15-16 at Mote Marine Lab in Sarasota, Florida. Approximately 250 attendees from 8 states engaged in ocean conservation awareness through speakers, presentations and workshops. In conjunction with the summit, a film festival was held on Friday night to showcase the ocean conservation film winners; Love A Sea Turtle’s educational video was last year’s winner. We held multiple workshop sessions in the afternoon for youth and adults wanting to start their own grassroots organization or develop an ocean conservation project.

The Turtle Team attended Love A Sea Turtle‘s Conservation Leadership Forum over the weekend. We stayed at BHI Conservancy, participated in a leadership workshop and assisted with conservation efforts on the island.

Today’s post for National Week of the Ocean – VOLUNTEER. Be an advocate for the ocean and its marine life! Spread the word about sustainable seafood – download a regional Seafood Watch Pocket Guide.

February 13-19 is Random Acts of Kindness Week. Volunteer, hold a bake sale, help in some way – it’s the little things that count!

Volunteer, organize an event, do something to make a difference during these recognized dates:

• Feb. 2 – World Wetlands Day
• Mar. 22 – World Water Day
• April 1-7 – National Week of the Ocean
• April 22 – Earth Day
• May 22 – World Biodiversity Day
• June 8 – World Oceans Day
• July 1-7 – National Clean Beaches Week
• Oct. 22 – National Make A Difference Day

Nov. 12: Turtle-shaped sugar cookies, Sea Turtle Blend Coffee from Joe Van Gogh, sea turtle awareness info, Seafood Watch Pocket Guides, music & friends – it was a great day!