Please help us with our mission to improve and protect the lives of all marine mammals, humans, and our shared oceans by becoming an NMMF donor today

Your gift to the National Marine Mammal Foundation promotes cutting-edge research that protects wild dolphins, whales, and other marine mammals, supports our bold conservation work to save critically endangered species, makes it possible for our organization to collaborate with scientists around the globe, and helps us evaluate human impacts and other environmental changes on marine mammals and encourage young students to pursue an education and career in science. Please support the education, conservation, and research efforts of the NMMF today.

Does your employer offer a Matching Gifts Program? Many companies do! Please review and ensure you are maximizing this opportunity to double your impact.

Why Your Donation Matters

Your support powers life-saving rescues, cutting-edge marine mammal research, and education that inspires future ocean stewards. Together, we’re protecting marine life and the waters we all share.

Learn more about our projects in need of funding

  • Operation GRACE

    Your donation supports our unique veterinary-led conservation efforts aimed at protecting threatened marine mammals, their ecosystems, and the communities that rely on them. By contributing, you help us apply cutting-edge science to safeguard species and habitats worldwide.

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  • Marine Mammal Rescue

    Donations directly support our emergency response teams on the Eastern Seaboard and Gulf Coast. Your gift helps us respond quickly when marine mammals are in distress and ensures they receive expert care when it matters most.

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  • Community Engagement

    Help us inspire the next generation of ocean advocates. Your donation supports our outreach programs that connect students to science, conservation, and marine mammals
    — carrying on the vision of our friend and outreach pioneer,
    Jim Rohr.

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  • Vaquita Conservation

    With fewer than 10 vaquitas remaining, your donation fuels critical efforts to save this species. Operation Esperanza uses innovative science and community partnerships to reduce bycatch and offer hope for the world’s most endangered marine mammal.

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Memorial Funds

The Ridgway Fund

This fund honors the NMMF’s founding president and supports initiatives in veterinary science, research, and care for marine mammals. Your gift advances the legacy of Dr. Sam Ridgway and helps us carry forward his pioneering work.

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NMMF-Stan-kuczaj
Stan Kuczaj Memorial Fund

Honor Dr. Stan Kuczaj’s legacy by supporting students and researchers exploring animal cognition, behavior, and development. Your gift advances the study of dolphin intelligence and helps continue Stan’s groundbreaking work in marine mammal science.

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Coll Gordon Perske Fund

Established in memory of Coll Gordon Perske, this fund supports research and initiatives that enhance the well-being of marine mammals, especially California sea lions. Your donation promotes ocean stewardship, science, and education in Coll’s name.

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Dr. Jeanette Fuller Ridgway Scientific Writing Fund

This fund supports the completion and publication of scientific writing by NMMF researchers and experts, helping share critical marine mammal science with the world. Donations honor Dr. Jeanette Fuller Ridgway’s legacy by advancing research, education, and conservation through clear, impactful science communication.

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Major Gift Opportunities

Discover impactful ways to support marine mammal health, conservation research, and ocean education. Your major gift can help drive groundbreaking science and protect our shared seas.

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