D.J. Rainone Research & Science Center
September 2023
The renovations for ORCA’s D.J. Rainone Research & Science Center are progressing smoothly, bringing us closer to the finish line! After passing the building inspections for the plumbing, electrical and window openings, we are again moving full speed ahead.
With each step we take towards realizing our dream of this facility, we are one step closer to creating a hub of innovation, collaboration, and inspiration that will propel our applied science research and community education programs.
Every contribution, whether big or small, every ounce of effort, and every moment of belief in our cause helps us move forward.
With thanks,
Edie Widder, Ph.D.
Renovations at our soon-to-be new headquarters are moving right along! We are getting closer to realizing our vision of ORCA’s new main facility and laboratory that will empower our mission to restore the Indian River Lagoon.
The D.J. Rainone Research & Science Center, will become the heart of our operations, serving as a hub for ORCA’s applied science research on the Indian River Lagoon, innovative technology development, science-based conservation initiatives, and community education and outreach programs. At our new home, we aim to create an environment that fosters innovation and collaboration and we firmly believe that with the right resources and infrastructure, we can make an even greater impact on aquatic conservation and sustainability efforts.
Your generosity is vital in achieving our goals. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to our capital campaign. Any amount, no matter how small, will make a significant impact on our journey to protect and restore our waters. To donate, please visit our secure online donation portal here: MAKE A DONATION.
If you prefer to contribute via check or other means, please find the details below:
Make checks payable to ORCA:
Ocean Research & Conservation Association, 1235 16th Street, Vero Beach, FL 32960
If you have any other preferred donation methods or questions, please feel free to contact our team at Ltracy@teamorca.org or 772-562-9052.
With thanks,
Edie Widder, Ph.D.
Our team is ecstatic to see our new home starting to take shape and we are so very grateful to all who have helped make that happen.
In the meantime, the ORCAnauts have been hard at work.
- The buffered shoreline installations funded by Impact 100 Martin were completed.
- Two undergraduate interns joined our team for the summer. They are Katie Hastings from the University of Miami and Madison DePeri from Indian River State College.
- 17 unique classes over 9 days were taught through the Learning Alliance’s Moonshot Moment and Gifford Youth Achievement Center. Training in how to build a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) was a special hit with students who got to design and engineer a coat hanger ROV.
Edie 
