Sperry Top-Sider partnered with Oceana, an international non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the worlds oceans, to promote widespread involvement in the fight to protect the oceans.
“This is a critical juncture for our worlds oceans,” said Karen Pitts, vice president of marketing for Sperry Top-Sider. “As a brand with a 72-year heritage tied directly to enjoying life in, on and around the water, were deeply committed to supporting Oceana in its crusade to protect one of our earths most precious assets.”
Oceanas teams of marine scientists, economists, lawyers and advocates work to win specific and concrete policy changes to reduce pollution and to prevent the irreversible collapse of fish populations, marine mammals and other sea life. With each victory important and measurable steps are taken to reverse the course of degradation of the ocean, its wildlife and its role in the global ecosystem. As the effects of global climate change unfold, the vital role of a healthy ocean is also becoming clearer.
“With the earth two-thirds water, the oceans are on the frontlines of impacts from global climate change,” said Pitts. “As a company that was born on the water, we represent millions worldwide that share the love of the sea. Our hope is to draw on this force to help Oceana achieve its important goals.”
Currently, Oceana has 300,000 members and e-activists, called “WaveMakers”, in over 150 countries. Sperry Top-Sider hopes to help greatly increase this number through several efforts, including:
– Oceana “The Official Charity of the Sperry Top-Sider NOOD Regattas”: The largest single regatta series in the United States, the NOODs reach thousands of sailors across the country. Sperry will name Oceana the events official charity, opening the NOOD network to extend Oceanas reach and membership worldwide.
– “World Ocean Day” Promotion: World Ocean Day (June 8, 2008) is an opportunity each year to celebrate our worlds oceans and every individuals personal connection to the sea. Each year at this time, Oceana encourages aquariums, zoos, museums, conservation organizations, universities, schools, and businesses to participate in this worldwide celebration through events and other activities. Sperry Top-Sider is planning a special promotion that will help consumers celebrate while raising membership and funds for Oceana.
– WaveMaker Membership Drive: With its broad retail distribution and loyal consumer base, Sperry Top-Siders network is hardwired into millions of sailors, boaters and enthusiasts that love life in, on and around the water. This year, the company will begin a communications effort to recruit new WaveMakers via box inserts, in-store promotions, online communications and other messaging vehicles.
“Ocean fisheries are collapsing, but the great news is that we know what we need to do to restore abundant and healthy oceans,” said Andrew Sharpless, CEO of Oceana. “Sperry is lending us a huge hand by helping us reach out to people so that we can win the changes that will save the oceans. Were very grateful for their support.”
