On January 29, 2025, Coral Restoration Foundation (CRF) collaborated with American Modern, an insurance company based in Ohio, to host a restoration workshop at Playa Largo Resort. More than 90 volunteers from the company traveled all the way down to Key Largo, to learn about coral conservation and take part in building restoration materials to help support Florida’s Coral Reef.
The day began with an educational presentation introducing volunteers to the CRF mission and the importance of coral reef preservation. They learned about the different threats facing coral ecosystems and restoration initiatives we utilize, such as coral nurseries and outplanting.
Following the presentation, American Modern volunteers applied what they learned with the hands-on work of assembling restoration materials for offshore nurseries. The participants constructed spiral trees, shading structures, and float bundles, important components that support the development of coral stocks before they are transplanted onto the reef.
Jena Myers, a CRF intern at the event stated, “By seeing the intricacies of different restoration materials we use, volunteers were able to see the detailed work that goes into coral conservation and how each component plays a vital role in reef recovery.” This interactive experience gives volunteers a glimpse into the restoration process, giving them the opportunity to make a direct impact.
The volunteers demonstrated enthusiasm and teamwork throughout the event, supporting one another and embracing collaboration outside of their typical professional environment. Sophie Dellinger, a lead intern at CRF shared, “It was really inspiring to see a corporation so invested in giving back to our oceans. We’re very grateful to have volunteers help us meet our restoration goals, spread awareness about the challenges our reefs are facing, and come together as ocean stewards to take action to protect our reefs!” When the event concluded all the volunteers were in high spirits and expressed appreciation for the chance to participate.
The success of this workshop shows the positive impact education and hands-on engagement have on our mission and inspiring meaningful change. Cecilia Dolaz, CRF Education Program Associate, who helped organize the event said, “It was inspiring to see the American Modern team's enthusiasm as they worked hands-on to support reef restoration! The experience gave participants a deeper understanding of the critical role coral reefs plays in our environment and the power of collective action to create positive change.”
Bringing together passionate individuals and committed organizations reinforces how conservation is a collective effort that thrives on awareness, collaboration, and action. As volunteers returned home to Ohio, they carried with them newfound knowledge and appreciation for coral and marine ecosystems, and the inspiration to continue advocating for ocean conservation in their own communities.
Written by: Megan Cleary, CRF Intern