Coastal Blog

Dillon Henry Foundation: A Lasting Impact

Written by Surfrider Foundation | May 10, 2015 7:00:00 AM

Many of us choose to make a positive difference through our daily actions by picking up trash that may end up in the ocean, using reusable water bottles, or simply providing the time to volunteer and apply specific skills to a cause we love. In addition, some people effect change by motivating and influencing young people in their pursuits of a better planet as well. The Dillon Henry Foundation has done this by making a lasting and inspirational impact on the ability of the next generation to get involved and help protect our ocean and coasts for all people.

Dillon Henry was passionate about the planet and showed deep care for the people around him. He co-chaired the Ocean Awareness Club at his high school to help protect our ocean and increase awareness of water pollution issues and clean water. After his passing in 2007, his parents and sibling, Steve Henry, Harriet Zaretsky and Talyor Henry, established an endowment at the Surfrider Foundation to provide support to summer interns pursuing a career in law or environmental policy.

Since the creation of the internship program, the outcomes have been remarkable. More than 30 interns have participated and many have gone on to become leaders in government, law firms, and NGOs with missions that include ocean and coastal protection. In addition, the Dillon Henry Foundation has supported Surfrider’s student network that connects youth to our community of driven and dedicated activists.

The Dillon Henry Foundation endowment has made a significant impact by allowing the Surfrider Foundation to hire and train interns who continue to contribute to our collective efforts to protect clean water and healthy beaches. Surfrider extends our deepest gratitude to the Dillon Henry Foundation for the investment in our ocean, coasts and future generations.

Internship Participants:

Rosa Acheson 

Jack Anderson 

Erin Barlow

Molly Bruce 

Lauren Campbell 

Clara Cartwright 

Ian Cecere 

Cassidy Farach

Nolan Fargo 

Amy Foo

Stephanie Haughey 

Rachael Hiatt 

Carolyn Labarbiera 

Kelsey Manes 

Angela McIntire 

Andrew Miller 

Jaime Neary 

Lauren Partch 

Anastacia Pirello 

Staley Prom 

Antoinette Ranit 

Sarah Spinuzzi 

Brycen Swart 

Katie Tannenbaum 

Kirk Tracy

Mike Velarde

Kaily Wakefield 

Christine Wendel 

Tip Wonhoff 

Jake Wyrick

If you would like to learn more, visit the Dillon Henry Foundation and make an impact by getting involved with your local Surfrider chapter.