Ocean Neighbors volunteers are middle school students connecting their community to the ocean. Volunteers talk to their neighbors, learn with their peers, and create weekly yard signs bringing the Pacific Ocean to neighborhoods throughout Southern California and beyond.
Middle school students find their voice in a shared community through this hybrid volunteer program. They bring the ocean inland, connecting our entire Southern California community to the Pacific Ocean, and beyond.
Volunteers learn about ocean conservation and marine science, explore the Aquarium, and connect with their neighborhoods. By working collaboratively, Ocean Neighbors foster a sense of community and shared responsibility for protecting marine ecosystems, making a tangible difference in their community.
Ocean Neighbors volunteers learn from dedicated high school mentors during weekly online collaboration sessions. Mentors are experienced Aquarium of the Pacific volunteers who bring knowledge and enthusiasm to the experience. These mentors play a crucial role in guiding middle school volunteers through their journey, providing insights into the Aquarium’s mission and inspiring the next generation of ocean stewardship.
Volunteer Application