Ian Kennelly with the Portland, Oregon chapter, is helping to lead the way to protect our waterways and coasts through the Green Streets program, beach cleanups and the chapter's Hold On to Your Butts committee. While not volunteering, Ian is the director, producer and editor at SuperGreat Video Production, a business he helped start. Find out more about Ian's work to protect our ocean, waves and beaches:
Q: Why and when did you get involved with the Surfrider Foundation?
I discovered Surfrider in 2013 by googling “surfing volunteer portland.” I knew nothing about the organization at first, but an extremely friendly volunteer coordinator made it easy to get involved. I wanted to do meaningful work, and also meet other surfers and check out their favorite spots.
Q: What are some local issues that are affecting your ocean, waves and beaches?
We’re currently celebrating Oregon's 50th Anniversary of the Beach Bill, which established public access to Oregon’s beaches. It’s one of many (many) things that makes Oregon great.
Q: What Surfrider projects have you worked on?
I’m a lead for the Hold On to Your Butt committee (we install cigarette canisters and raise awareness of butt litter), and I host a monthly litter cleanup called Green Streets. We’ve recently partnered with local breweries to host neighborhood cleanup parties.
Q: What has been the highlight of your Surfrider experience (i.e., campaign, program, victory)?
The best part has been meeting incredible, motivated people and making lifelong friends.
Q: What is the most important thing you tell others about Surfrider?
It’s easy to get involved, and every volunteer can make a difference.
Q: Will you complete the following sentence: I am a Surfrider coastal defender because . . .
I love my beach!
Check out Ian's video featuring the Green Streets program:
Want to get involved? Join us and find your nearest Surfrider chapter at Surfrider.org/chapters!