Young People Bring in Big Bucks for the South Carolina Aquarium's Sea Turtle Rescue Program
(PRWEB) September 27, 2013 -- Thirty-two third graders from Charleston Day School raised their voices together as they read aloud the mock check for $10,195.38 to support the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Rescue Program. The gift, presented on Friday September 27, 2013, represents the largest one-time donation from a school and will provide food to turtle patients in the Aquarium’s care for one full year.
“We are so touched by the generosity of Charleston Day School’s third graders,” said Kevin Mills, Aquarium president and CEO. “By demonstrating their own regard for the fate of sea turtles, they give us all a reason to be optimistic about the future.”
The students raised the money through a read-a-thon where they were sponsored for every minute they spent reading. If your class is interested in holding their own read-a-thon, contact turtlerescue(at)scaquarium(dot)org.
How to Help:
You can help care for sea turtles recovering in the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Rescue Program by going to scaquarium.org and making a donation. You can also find out more about visiting the hospital as part of a behind-the-scenes tour now offered twice daily, seven days a week, both schedule and more information are available online.
For all media inquiries or to request photos or video, please contact Kate Dittloff at (843) 579-8660 or kdittloff(at)scaquarium(dot)org.
About the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Rescue Program:
In partnership with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Rescue Program works to rescue, rehabilitate and release sea turtles that strand along the South Carolina coast. Located in the Aquarium, the Sea Turtle Hospital admits 20 to 30 sea turtles each year. Many of these animals are in critical condition and some are too sick to save.
According to SCDNR, over the last 10 years the average number of sea turtle standings on South Carolina beaches each year is 130. Of these, roughly 10% are alive and successfully transported to the Sea Turtle Hospital. To date, the South Carolina Aquarium has successfully rehabilitated and released 129 sea turtles and is currently treating 7 patients. The average cost for each patient’s treatment is $36 a day with the average length of stay reaching nine months.
About the South Carolina Aquarium:
The South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston’s most visited attraction, features thousands of amazing aquatic animals from river otters and sharks to loggerhead turtles in more than 60 exhibits representing the rich biodiversity of South Carolina from the mountains to the sea. Dedicated to promoting education and conservation, the Aquarium also presents fabulous views of Charleston harbor and interactive exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages.
The South Carolina Aquarium, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization and is open Daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Aquarium is closed Thanksgiving Day, half day Dec. 24 (open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and Dec. 25. Admission prices are: Toddler’s (3 and under) free; Youth (4-12) $14.95; Adults (13+) $24.95. The Aquarium plus the 4-D Theater experience is free for Toddler’s, $19.95 for Children, $29.95 for Adults. The 4-D Theater experience only is $6.95 for Children and adults, and free for Members. For more information call 843-720-1990 or visit scaquarium.org. Memberships are available by calling 843-577-FISH.
Kate Dittloff, South Carolina Aquarium, http://www.scaquarium.org, +1 (843) 579-8660, [email protected]
Share this article