****Celebrating World Water Day theme Water for Peace: Waterspirit's "Joys of the Sea Gala" Highlights Ecosystem Conservation Efforts****

[LONG BRANCH, NEW JERSEY, 3/22/24] - In commemoration of World Water Day themed “Water for Peace,” Waterspirit hosted a spectacular "Joys of the Sea Gala" on March 22nd 2024 at Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant, bringing together a diverse array of environmental advocates, community leaders, and ocean enthusiasts to celebrate the beauty and significance of our marine ecosystems.

The gala served as a platform to raise awareness about the critical importance of healthy waterways and sustainable water management practices. Participants gathered to honor the wonders of the sea and emphasized the need for collective action to protect our marine environments for generations to come.

Key highlights of the event included:

- **Renowned Keynote Address: ** Jenna Reynolds, Suzanne Golas Spirit of Water Award winner, spoke passionately to the attendees. An environmental science expert and professor, she expressed the ongoing need for awareness and conservation. She led in the celebration of the deep connection of biodiversity, humans, coastal wildlife and spirituality.

- **Jersey Shore Views & Silent Auction: ** Attendees enjoyed the ambience of the venue, which captured the essence of the sea's beauty, highlighting the importance of preserving ecosystems. The silent auction allowed attendees to peruse both unique experiences and artwork with the backdrop of scenic views.

- **Entertainment:** Guests were treated to music filled conversation over delicious vegan prepared fare by Jared Brown while bonding over storytelling sessions about their connection to sacred water.

The Joys of the Sea Gala served as a call to action, inspiring attendees to take tangible steps towards protecting our local watersheds, promoting sustainable practices, and advocating for policies that safeguard our precious water resources. By fostering a spirit of collaboration and environmental stewardship, Waterspirit instills a sense of responsibility and reverence for our oceans and waterways.

The event opened with a Prayer for Water, Peace and Harmony, written by Waterspirit’s Public Policy & Justice Organizer, Rachel Dawn Davis: “May the waters be cleansed and purified, free from pollution and harm. May they continue to nourish and sustain all life, from the smallest creature to the largest tree. We offer our deepest gratitude for the blessings of water and her protectors; and we commit to being mindful stewards of this precious resource.”

"We are thrilled to have hosted the 'Joys of the Sea Gala' in honor of World Water Day," said Blair Nelsen, Executive Director of Waterspirit. “Water is sacred. Sometimes working in the environmental field can feel overwhelming because there is no shortage of work to do. Events like Joys of the Sea remind us that we are always doing this work in community. We love water and we will do everything we can to protect it. Waterspirit is delighted to present Jenna Reynolds with the Suzanne Golas Spirit of Water Award. Jenna is a tremendous coastal wildlife advocate and dear collaborator. It has been a joy to host beach cleanups and other events together over the years, and we hope to continue taking care of our local waters together for years to come.”

The event brought together individuals from all experiences of life who share a common goal: to protect and preserve waters and build community for a sustainable future. Waterspirit’s team is humbled by the support and enthusiasm of our Joys of the Sea attendees and look forward to continuing water centered programming and advocacy efforts.

“Many people know that clean water is essential for living species to survive on Planet Earth. Yet simply having clean water is not enough. Although we are able to see our reflection in a pool of clean, clear water, we are not able to view what’s beneath the surface, we are not able to see a person’s values and emotions,” said Jenna Reynolds, Executive Director of Save Coastal Wildlife, and 2024 Suzanne Golas Spirit of Water Awardee. She continued, “Waterspirit is a unique organization that not only works to obtain clean water and a healthy environment, but will go deeper than what is at the surface to help people find a profound connection with Mother Earth and spirituality while aspiring towards enlightenment. I am truly honored to be recognized by a passionate and loving organization that generates the qualities of love, compassion and generosity to all living species according to the principals of Dharma.”

“I am so grateful to Waterspirit for helping the community deepen their connections to creation. Since joining Waterspirit, I have learned that Water Is Life and I have become even more dedicated to protecting water and all life that needs clean safe water. Being involved with all of the conservation minded, caring individuals that work and volunteer for Waterspirit lifts my spirit,” said Anne Price, Waterspirit’s Program Manager.

"I have been involved with Waterspirit since Sister Suzanne established the organization in 1998. Their eco-spiritual programming has brought so much joy and connectivity to my family. Joys of the Sea has been at the forefront of their programming; an event we look forward to every year when we can acknowledge and thank the honorees for their environmental successes," said Marguerite Stocker, long time Waterspirit volunteer.

“When I think of water as it cycles through the biosphere, it becomes for me an image of the grace that washes over, flows through and connects all things. The Waterspirit community connects me to this energy and enables me to more fully appreciate water's profound importance and to take actions to protect this precious source of life,” said Sister Mindy McDonald.

Waterspirit’s Board Chairperson, Kate Chambers shared, “The funds we raised this afternoon will support our ongoing projects, education programs, seasonal celebrations and advocacy work. It will help Waterspirit continue into the future, make an impact on the quality of our water, the health of our planet, and contributing to peace through the equitable use of water. We acknowledge and thank our Event Sponsors, the Reardon and Chamber families

Today is an opportunity for us all to be water sponsors! Every single one of us can make a difference for water. And we make that difference together. Let us remember that our collective efforts and generous contributions will help grow our community and ensure the survival and prosperity of Waterspirit for years to come.”

For more information about Waterspirit and upcoming initiatives, visit Waterspirit.org or follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube.

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Waterspirit is a spiritual ecology non-profit organization dedicated to promoting water stewardship, environmental conservation, and community engagement. Through advocacy, education, and collaborative initiatives, Waterspirit works to protect and preserve our water resources for current and future generations.