Melodie Harris lives in Waynesboro, Virginia, but her passion for Florida’s marine mammals runs deep. Since 2022, she has been a dedicated supporter of our Marine Mammal Fund, giving to help protect manatees and the habitats they depend on.
Her connection began during a beach vacation several years ago when she picked up a manatee plushie as a souvenir. That small moment sparked a desire to learn more, and before long, a lifelong admiration took root.
“It’s amazing that manatees have existed for around a million years while remaining so docile, slow, and curious,” Melodie says. “Knowing how gentle they are makes me want to protect them because they don’t have a way to physically protect themselves.”
While manatees have no natural predators, they face serious threats from human activity. Habitat loss and boat strikes have left many with scars so distinctive they can be identified by pattern alone. “We need to do a better job of keeping manatees safe and preserving their habitat so they can last another million years,” Melodie says.
Although Melodie has only visited Florida twice and has not yet seen a manatee in the wild, she hopes to make a special trip someday just for that purpose. Until then, she supports conservation in the way she can.
“While I can’t physically protect manatees myself, especially from Virginia, donating to an organization that can help is the next best thing,” she explains.
Melodie is thoughtful about her giving and wants others to know that every gift matters, no matter the size. “When I donate, it’s usually not a huge amount,” she says. “I give what I can when I can, and even a little makes a difference. If everyone who cares about manatees and their habitat did the same, it would give the Foundation the ability to do even more.”
Her story is a reminder that you can make a lasting difference no matter where you live. Whether you are inspired by manatees or another species close to your heart, your support helps ensure a future for all of wild Florida. Explore our Pick A Cause page to find a reason to give today.
