Virginia Aquarium Foundation

A nonprofit organization

$4,550 raised by 24 donors

30% complete

$15,000 Goal

A Legacy of Impact. A Future Powered by You.

The Virginia Aquarium is more than a place to visit—it is a place where second chances begin, where curiosity turns into connection, and where the ocean’s story is still being written.

For 40 years, we've been making waves - one moment at a time.
A marine animal rescue.
A first glimpse of wonder.
A connection that changes everything.

Every day, along 7,000 miles of Virginia coastline, our Stranding Response Team answers the call—rescuing sea turtles and marine animals in need. Each rescue is a second chance at life, but our impact reaches far beyond the shoreline. Through partnerships across the region, the nation, and around the world, the Virginia Aquarium advances critical conservation efforts that protect vulnerable species, support marine research, and help shape a healthier future for our ocean.

At the same time, we are inspiring the next generation of ocean stewards. Each year, tens of thousands of students experience hands-on learning through our programs—where a single moment of wonder can spark a lifelong passion for protecting our oceans.

At the Aquarium, guests don’t just observe—they connect. They come face-to-face with extraordinary animals and gain a deeper understanding of the marine environment and the role they play in protecting it.

None of this happens without you.

Because of you, a rescue becomes a second chance.
Because of you, curiosity becomes a lifelong passion.
Because of you, conservation becomes action.

Your support fuels every rescue, opens doors for every student, and sustains the care of every animal. It powers the work happening today—and the impact still to come. When you give, you are not just making a donation—you are becoming part of a 40-year legacy of impact, and helping write the next chapter.

Every rescue. Every student. Every moment of connection - starts with you.

🌊 Your Impact Starts Here 🌊

When you give through Give Local 757, your generosity goes to work immediately—fueling animal care, advancing conservation, and turning moments of curiosity into lifelong impact.

Every gift helps rescue marine animals in need, inspire future ocean stewards, and protect the life that depends on our ocean.

"SEA" the difference you can make:

$25 – Provides critical supplies for the care of a rescued marine animal
$50 – Helps fuel a vehicle for a marine animal rescue response
$100 – Supports 1 day of veterinary care and rehabilitation for a marine animal
$250 – Provides Aquarium experiences for 35 under-resourced students
$500 - Funds two outreach programs for Title I schools, giving students hands-on learning experiences and helping bring the coast to the classroom.
$1,000+ – Helps cover the average cost to rescue, rehabilitate, and release a sea turtle.