Sanibel Sea School is thrilled to announce our “Outstanding Partner” Award from FWC’s Florida Youth Conservation Center Network (FYCCN). This award recognizes organizations that excel in providing youth outdoor recreation and conservation education programs. FWC cited in the award Sanibel Sea School’s “successes in creating the next generation that cares” as a contributing factor for the award. 

As a partner with FYCCN since 2022, Sanibel Sea School offers hands-on marine science education programs for youth and families. The partnership recognizes Sanibel Sea School’s mission of improving the ocean’s future one person at a time through half-day courses, week-long camps, community outreach programs, and more.

In its 15th year, FYCCN is a public-private partnership initiative of FWC developed to “inspire a lifelong delight for the outdoors and a passion for conserving Florida’s exquisite natural resources.” The network aims to uphold Florida’s outdoor heritage by educating and empowering Florida’s youth and educators with outdoor know-how and conservation concepts.

One of the benefits of partnering with FYCCN is program expansion resources and equipment loans in focus areas. Marine Science Educators recently attended a Project WILD/Aquatic Workshop at Manatee Park, organized by FYCCN. Educators deepened their knowledge of educational practices and theory to apply to their teachings. In addition, FYCCN lends kayaks, life jackets, paddles, and a trailer to Sanibel Sea School for its “Have Paddle Will Survive Camp” teen Summer Camp. 

“We are so thankful for this partnership with FYCCN,” said Sanibel Sea School Director Shannon Rivard. “Our educators can learn more through workshops and bring those practices back to our programs. Attending training sessions helps ensure we continue to provide the highest quality of education.” 

With the help of the Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida, FYCCN has established a statewide conservation network of 350 partnerships with Florida’s parks, community centers, camps, clubs, museums, zoos, and aquariums to inspire youth from all backgrounds to enjoy and appreciate Florida’s natural areas. 

Learn more about the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network here.