Mystic Ocean Adventures, a new ocean-based educational nonprofit, has received an award from Montecito Bank and Trust.
About 200 nonprofit leaders recently attended the Community Dividends Awards luncheon for the bank, which is marking its 50th anniversary year. The event was held at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachside Resort.
The yearly ceremony is held as a thank you to the greater charitable community with $1.2 million awarded as the Montecito Bank and Trust’s yearly corporate philanthropy.
“Mystic Ocean Adventures fills a unique niche: offering experiential, maritime-based education that goes beyond the traditional classroom for young people to better understand the ocean, acquire nautical skills, teamwork and self-confidence,” the nonprofit said.
Mystic Ocean Adventures aims to ignite a passion for knowledge, foster a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems aboard the tall ship Mystic Whaler, a 110-foot reproduction of a late 19th-century cargo schooner.
Onboard, students receive a hands-on education, STEAM academic comprehension, environmental stewardship and nautical skills, with a focus on upcoming generations through sailing and the sea.
“This affirming award is a terrific testimony to all Mystic Ocean Adventures does to provide hands-on learning on the Tall Ship Mystic Whaler for Ventura and Santa Barbara counties’ youth, many of whom have never touched the water,” said Nancy McAleer Golden, Mystic Ocean Adventures Board president.
“You educate us and help us reach our highest potential,” Janet Garufis, Montecito Bank and Trust’s chairman/CEO, told the award recipients. “You listen to your community, engaging with them to better understand their needs, collaborate with partners to be more effective in how those needs are met. Thank you.”