Ignite the Reef

 I am exploring the feasibility of creating a fundraising/community-building event to take place on Roatan, Bay Islands. This Caribbean island has excellent COVID safety practices, and welcomes visitors interested in their culture, community, the beauty of the island and the bounty of the reef. It is a diver’s paradise with one of the top 10 dive sites in the world, Mary’s Place. It is home to a population of about 110K people and is economically fueled by tourism, mainly cruise ship passengers. There has not been a cruise ship in port in over a year, so the economy has been decimated. The international airport is open (Code RTB). 

Ignite the Reef will be a Burning-Man themed fundraiser. 100% of proceeds (in excess of admin/staffing costs) will go to local reef conservation efforts. Events will include educational talks about all manner of topics (related to interests above below and around the surface and/or around the world), snorkeling, community tours, an assortment of opportunities to literally help build the communities, plus DJ’s and/or bands playing sets at some epically stunning waterfront venues on the island of Roatan, and some phenomenal bonfires. 

There will be plenty of value for the ticket price, including many free events. Unlike at Burning Man, local vendors will be invited to vend. Stores, bars, restaurants hotels and dive shops will offer their services for their usual prices (or may have special offers available for attendees).