The ocean is a world of its own; a colorful blue-green world populated by incredibly unique plants and animals. That world is too often at risk from environmental threats, pollution and unchecked coastal development. Back in 1984, a group of Malibu-based surfers sought to protect their favorite surf spot from such dangers, and the Surfrider Foundation was born.

“Since our inception in 1984, the Surfrider Foundation has evolved into one of the largest non-profit grassroots organizations dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s ocean, waves and beaches through a powerful activist network,” the Foundation states on its website.

Contributions to the Surfrider Foundation help further the Foundation’s vision of healthy coasts and support its efforts to “preserve beach access, prevent beach loss, protect special places and eliminate ocean water pollution.” The Foundation offers an array of programs, such as the Blue Water Task Force (water testing, education and advocacy program), Ocean Protection (protects and restores ocean ecosystems), Rise Above Plastics (designed to eliminate the impacts of plastics in the marine environment) and Youth Leadership & Engagement (youth service program), among others.

The Surfrider Foundation has grown since 1984, now boasting 84 chapters, 30 high school and college clubs, and more than 250,000 supporters. You, too, can help support the Foundation’s goal of protecting our ocean and beaches and raising awareness about environmental dangers. To learn more about the Surfrider Foundation, visit http://www.surfrider.org/.