Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation has a deceptively simple Mission, “To protect and care for Southwest Florida's coastal ecosystems”. In fulfilling that mission, SCCF uses research, education, and advocacy to preserve Sanibel as a uniquely natural barrier island. Its geographic reach has extended beyond its roots in the Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge – through donor supported acquisitions it is largest private landowner on Sanibel, all of it protected in perpetuity. The Sanibel Sea School, Marine Research Laboratory, and Coastal Watch are all parts of SCCF we are proud to support. SCCCF.org

Sanibel Sea School, now part of SCCF, “is dedicated to vibrantly teaching children and adults about marine ecosystems – animals, people, plants, land, ocean and weather. We give students an opportunity to touch, feel and interact with natural surroundings.” In addition to monetary grants, Sanibel FlyFishers helps teach a summer fishing camp that gives students an introduction to life on the water. Sanibelseaschool.org

SCCF Marine Laboratory Internships are designed to broaden the experience of new college graduates through guided and independent research projects. The internship allows exploration of the field of marine sciences, informs future educational and career choices, and creates lifetime connections. While they are with us, these young people greatly enrich our community and form a lifetime bond with the island.

Coastal Watch is an SCCF volunteer program that gets community members involved in maintaining and restoring the environment through mangrove and oyster restoration projects, beach and clean-ups, and other sustainability projects. It has been invaluable in organizing volunteer efforts following recent waves of hurricane destruction.

The FGCU Water School Scholarship Fund was established with the help of generous donors and a Club fund raising effort. This endowed fund provides scholarships for graduate students who we trust will be the future stewards of our fragile environment. To learn more about the Florida Gulf Coast University Water School, visit its Website.