In Spring of 2022, the Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA) launched a capital campaign to purchase and renovate a building that will provide permanent laboratory and office space for the organization. Located at 1235 16th Street, the building is in downtown Vero Beach, making it both centrally located and an easy 10-minute drive from our Center for Citizen Science, a facility re-purposed for ORCA by the City of Vero Beach.
For a year, ORCA was on a hunt for new headquarters to continue applied science research on the Indian River Lagoon. In consulting with architects about the best way to create the most environmentally friendly building possible, we were advised that renovation of an existing structure rather than building from scratch is the most effective way to minimize impact.
ORCA's new building will be named the D.J. Rainone Research and Science Center in memory of Donald J. Rainone, a local resident who possessed an incredible love for the ocean and whose estate kicked off the capital campaign that made the purchase of the building possible.
At ORCA we believe there is no more important legacy that we can leave for the next generation than a healthy environment. We are therefore focused on determining what actions will have the biggest impact on improving the health of the lagoon. Our science-driven approach is not about finger-pointing, but on using facts to drive change.
Your generous contribution today will ensure we can continue to have the science, knowledge, and resources necessary to implement real change.
Please help us reach our goal and donate now!
With thanks,
Team ORCA
TO DONATE BY MAIL:
Send to ORCA at 1235 16th Street, Vero Beach, FL 32960
*photo is an artist's rendering*