Program areas at Western Flyer Foundation
Education and research programsover 950 students participated in integrative science and art programs, with 415 students visiting the Western Flyer. Highlights include piloting at-sea research programs for 29 students, serving 362 students in immersive marine science and art experiences aboard the docked Western Flyer, and reaching 529 students through the community journal project, which combines marine ecology and nature journaling. Additionally, the mentoring ecosystem pilot program connected 14 students with 11 ocean professionals. 82% of the students served came from local public schools, universities, or nonprofits, with nearly 70% identifying as students of color.
Community outreach and engagementin addition to a successful homecoming event in monterey, the Foundation co-hosted cannery row days, participated in local festivals, and delivered 30 presentations, engaging 1,250 individuals and offering tours of the Western Flyer to 1,600 attendees. The Foundation also created a short film narrated by emmy award-winning actor and comedian nick offerman. Media coverage, including features in major outlets like cbs and the los angeles times, reached millions, amplifying the vessel's story and mission.
Restoration and preparation of the Western flyerthe Western Flyer Foundation achieved significant milestones in restoring the vessel, including outfitting it with a hybrid-drive engine, upgrading its mechanical systems, and converting the fish hold into the chuck baxter laboratory. After 15 years, the Flyer returned to monterey bay in november 2023, celebrated by over 2,000 attendees at a historic homecoming event.