2024 was the hottest and one of the driest years on record. Despite the challenging conditions, we made a remarkable impact: we hosted 54 free harbor cruises, welcoming thousands to experience Boston’s waterfront; awarded $315,000 in Better Beaches grants to 82 community groups, which funded 201 free events, from beach parties to cultural festivals; created jobs for 42 local youth, who engaged 233 youth and community groups in hands-on environmental education; and hosted 10 climate resilience workshops to identify strategies for climate adaptation on our beaches.  

With your support, we can continue building a thriving, inclusive waterfront community — even as climate change impacts us more and more. Even a small contribution would drive our efforts to bring thousands more kids and families to the Boston Harbor, islands, and beaches through inclusive and free events and programs in 2025.  

As we look ahead, we’re excited to share our priorities and all we will accomplish with your support: 

Equip young leaders for bright futures: By investing in our Youth Job and Leadership Training Program, you are empowering young people from diverse backgrounds to develop skills in environmental stewardship, leadership, and marine science, opening doors to meaningful careers in STEAM fields.  

Grow the reach of our Youth Environmental Education Programs: Your support will expand our programs in breadth and depth, bringing them to new locations, enhancing the curriculum, and ensuring that everyone — regardless of ability, socioeconomic background, or language proficiency — can enjoy our spectacular urban natural resources.  

Strengthen coastal resiliency: With your help, we can continue partnering with experts and local leaders to advocate for resilient waterfront policies that protect our beaches from the impacts of climate change and rising sea levels.  

Thank you, and we’ll see you on the Boston Harbor!