CHARITYPARTNERS
Working Together for Local Impact
Go Overboard works closely with the Conservation Collective, a global network of locally-led, philanthropic foundations focused on protecting, preserving, and restoring the natural environment. The Conservation Collective helps launch, fund, and grow environmental foundations around the world, each supporting the most effective grassroots initiatives in their region.
Ionian Environment Foundation (IEF) — our primary charity partner and the heart of our mission in Corfu, supports grassroots environmental projects across the Ionian Islands, protecting both marine and land ecosystems through conservation, education, and sustainable development initiatives. Together, we co-produce the swim, identify priorities, and raise awareness for critical conservation needs in the Ionian Sea.
As Go Overboard expands to new locations, our charitable reach will grow too — supporting additional Conservation Collective foundations, launching projects on land as well as sea, and building a reserve fund to respond to environmental emergencies.
Projects We’ve CHAMPIONED
Here are some of the initiatives funded through our swim events — projects that protect wildlife, support sustainable tourism, and promote environmental education across the Ionian region:
Ionian Dolphin Project
In partnership with Tethys Research Institute and supported by IEF, this long-running project monitors and protects dolphin populations in the Ionian Sea. Funds from Go Overboard have supported research trips, local education, and outreach to reduce marine traffic impact.
Saving the Posidonia Meadows
Posidonia seagrass meadows are a crucial ecosystem in the Mediterranean — absorbing carbon, providing fish habitat, and protecting coastlines. Through IEF’s initiatives, we've helped map and monitor these habitats while supporting campaigns to reduce anchoring damage from visiting boats.
Sustainable Sailing Guides
Together with IEF, we supported the creation and distribution of sustainable sailing guides for charter boats and sailors. These guides help protect marine habitats by sharing best practices for eco-conscious sailing, mooring, and waste disposal.
Environmental Education in Local Schools
Go Overboard funds have supported programs in Corfu schools that teach students about marine conservation, biodiversity, and sustainability — helping inspire the next generation of sea stewards.
Marine Cave Exploration for Monk Seal Habitats
We supported Archipelagos – environment and development, in collaboration with the Blue Marine Foundation, to survey marine caves in Northern Corfu and nearby islets. The team identified several caves as potential habitats for the endangered Mediterranean monk seal. Using SCUBA and visual surveys, they documented rich biodiversity and highlighted the urgent need to protect these vulnerable ecosystems from unregulated tourism and pollution.
Start at
$2
per day
Start at
$5
per day
Looking Ahead
As we plan future swims in new locations, we aim to:
- Support other Conservation Collective foundations beyond the Ionian
- Fund a mix of marine and land-based environmental projects
- Establish a reserve fund for rapid-response ecological needs
Every swimmer, donor, and supporter helps make this work possible. Together, we’re building a movement rooted in joy, purpose, and impact.
DIVE INTO THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME FOR A GOOD CAUSE
Swim across borders, raise money for the planet, and become part of a global community making waves for change.
