Amanda's Fundraiser for Debris Free Oceans
A nonprofit fundraiser supporting
Debris Free Oceans$454
raised by 5 people
$1,000 goal
Hi, I'm Amanda Di Perna, the Education & Outreach Manager at Debris Free Oceans!
My Journey with Debris Free Oceans
I first started working with Debris Free Oceans in 2022 as a Chef Andrew Scholar while pursuing my B.S. in Marine Biology at Florida International University. This life-changing experience gave me hands-on exposure to ocean advocacy and plastic reduction, which shaped my career path.
After graduating in 2023 as one of FIU's Outstanding Graduates, I joined DFO's staff part-time! When we secured enough funding, I became DFO's second-ever full-time employee, which was an incredibly meaningful moment for me and our growing organization.
Today, I am proud to lead programs that educate and inspire the Miami-Dade community to go zero-waste and reduce plastic pollution. I work with students, community members, local businesses, schools, and government partners to promote zero-waste living.
Earlier this year, I was honored to be recognized as an Emerging Leader at the Race to Zero Waste Sustainability in Action Awards for my work with DFO.
Every day, I feel grateful to support DFO's mission and to help others discover their passion for conservation.
Why I'm Fundraising
Debris Free Oceans has created meaningful change in Miami, but we are a tiny team doing a huge job. Waste in Miami is increasing, and plastic pollution continues to threaten our waterways. There is a growing demand for our programs and more interest than ever from community members who want to get involved.
This Give Miami Day, I am raising funds to grow two programs that are especially close to my heart: the Chef Andrew Scholar Program and Zero Waste Miami.
Your genorosity helps us guide more students into ocean conservation, scale community-led zero-waste projects, and keep building a cleaner and healthier Miami-Dade County. Plus, every dollar you donate is matched thanks to a generous donation.
Thank you for supporting this work and for believing in something that means so much to me. 💜🐙