MERR Institute makes a big splash at annual Finraiser
The Marine Education Research and Rehabilitation Institute made waves Nov. 16, with its annual Finraiser event at Salero atop the Henlopen Hotel in Rehoboth Beach.
The event supports marine conservation and rehabilitation efforts. The lively gathering brought together ocean enthusiasts, conservationists and local businesses for an evening of fundraising and education.
Attendees enjoyed live music provided by 33 1/3, a live auction run by auctioneer Frank McCraghan, and a silent auction featuring ocean-themed artwork and eco-friendly products. A live mermaid, a merman and a pirate were on hand to entertain the guests.
Proceeds from the event will fund MERR’s programs, including marine animal rescue, public education and research initiatives aimed at protecting coastal ecosystems.
MERR's founder and Executive Director Suzanne Thurman expressed gratitude for the community's strong support, noting the importance of collective action in addressing challenges like marine pollution and habitat loss.
“I’ve cared deeply about the ocean and environmental issues since I was about 11 years old,” she said. “My family moved to this area, and I fell in love with the ocean. I had a lot of exposure to the environmental movement at the time, and so that really resonated with me.”
To learn more or volunteer, contact MERR at www.merrinstitute.org.
