My Nonprofit Reviews

I have been volunteering with ODA in one way or another since the early days when we were just trying to get a boat (that floats) into the water. It has been blood sweat and tears but triumphs too! And oh those triumphs are so sweet. To see a huge chunk of net, a length of line or a trap come from the deep blue onto our deck and then be removed from the ocean to keep that abandoned gear from killing more sea life, wow, it's so very satisfying.

While volunteering with ODA, at the end of the day(s) you can see the results. Whether it is fixing a computer system, repairing a generator or bilge pump, putting a new paint job on the boat or that sweet sense of victory as the deadly gear is ripped from the sea never to kill again, ODA is where it is for me.

I met Kurt volunteering for another ocean oriented non profit. At that organization it felt like half the effort was spent working around egos and navigating a maze of crazy interpersonal relations. That is NOT the case at ODA. At ODA IT'S ALL ABOUT THE MISSION. I meet other engineers, divers and volunteers that are mission focused and results oriented. I have volunteered at animal shelters, wild life rescue centers and teach ins for people wanting to learn math science and language skills. I found all those experiences rewarding. But my time with ODA has let me put my skills to the test and helped me grow and improve my skill set while helping the environment.

Come on board and dive in to make a difference with ODA. You'll be glad you did!

And if you want to support our efforts without the risk of sea sickness by making a donation, I can personally assure you that your money goes in the tank, in the boat and into the mission. We don't have a big or well paid staff. I support with an automatic donation each month. It's that important to me. I don't have a lot to give, but I put my money where my wrench turns, my soldering iron solders and my computing skills get used. I hope you will too.

John Milligan

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