Neal Communities sponsored Marine Laboratory & Aquarium’s signature gala, Oceanic Evening, to assist with world-class research, conservation of the area’s natural resources and promote science education.
Neal Communities provided a $6,000 sponsorship for the event, which took place on October 29 and supports Mote’s research programs focused on the understanding of manatees, sea turtles, sharks and coral reefs and on conservation and restoration efforts of those species and their ecosystems.
“We not only care about protecting and preserving the natural resources on land, we also care about protecting our natural resources within our oceans,” said Pat Neal, founder and chairman of Neal Communities.
Mote Marine Laboratory is one of the oldest marine research laboratories in the Sunshine State. The lab first opened in 1955. While the Lab’s beginning years primarily focused on sharks, Mote’s research has expanded to include other areas of research such as studies of human cancer using marine models, the effects of human-made and natural toxic substances on humans and on the environment, the health of wild fisheries, developing sustainable and successful fish restocking techniques and food production technologies and the development of ocean technology to help better understand the health of the environment.
With a core belief that “Where You Live Matters,” Neal Communities has given more than $7.5 million to local charities throughout Southwest Florida and is committed to the communities where they live, work and build. Over the years, Neal Communities has championed academic, athletic, cultural, environmental and philanthropic programs that support the arts, community, non-profit and educational organizations.
“Mote is instrumental in a variety of marine research and conservation efforts. Their research not only benefits our local environment, but their education programs help generations understand the role that everyone can play in aiding marine life and helping our planet,” said Ivory Matthews, Vice President of Community and Government Affairs. “We were proud to be sponsors of this year’s Oceanic Evening event to support a research organization that is making a difference.”
For more information about Mote Marine Laboratory, visit mote.org. For more information about Neal Communities’ community support, visit NealCommunities.com/where-you-live-matters.
