“Making Waves” at the Seacoast Science Center

Seals don’t care about pandemics.

The work protecting and rescuing sea mammals and advancing wildlife conservation at the Seacoast Science Center in Rye, then, has remained necessary — as has the support that keeps the organization going.

On Friday, November 13, the Seacoast Science Center (SSC) will highlight that aid with “Making Waves,” a live-stream celebration to show how ongoing support is making a difference.

“‘Making Waves’ is really to celebrate what we’re calling our Ocean Wave Makers — those who have helped us chart our course through the years and who have made a difference,” says Karen Provazza, director of marketing at the Science Center. “And it’s about raising interest in our reach and inspiring people to support our work and ensure a strong future for the Science Center.”

Registered participants will be able to get a look into student and supporter work, highlights from 2020, and get a glimpse at what lies ahead.

By registering early for the free event, participants will get tips on how to make the at-home watch party unique, learn about exclusive educational opportunities and get early access to the event auction. Registrants can also bid starting November 8 on a variety of destination and experience packages.

As with most nonprofit organizations, the SSC has seen its fundraising efforts challenged by COVID-19-related restrictions. Thanks to a committed community of supporters though, this year’s donations will go twice as far.

“Some of our steadfast supporters have offered to match gifts up to $50,000 to encourage others to support our conservation and education efforts,” Provazza says. “It’s been hard. Typically, we have our Music by the Sea concert series, which is a fundraising event, we have some specific to our Marine Mammal Rescue Program, a gala to support our mission, and we’ve been unable to hold those this year due to COVID.”

The work continued, however. The SSC’s Marine Mammal Rescue Team persisted throughout the lockdown period.

“Their work did not slow down,” Provazza says. “They are still protecting and rescuing seals on beaches and advancing wildlife conservation through education and community outreach.”

Participation in outdoor activities increased dramatically during the pandemic, and the SSC helped families and supporters to take part in ongoing explorations by using the organizations new digital assets, which broke down barriers of travel and distance

“With everything we do, we hope to help people gain a better understanding of our natural environment, and how the choices they make every day can influence our natural environment,” Provazza says. “Our goal is to inspire a conservation ethic, and to help people understand that the small actions they take every day can make a big difference in the health of our planet and our ocean.”

More about the Seacoast Science Center:

Located at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, the SSC encourages students, campers, interns and attendees to become good stewards of the environment, and the New Hampshire seacoast.

Currently, the SSC is open for visits on Saturdays and Sundays. Learn more about safety guidelines, hours and information here.