Ways to Help

Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute’s (CIMWI’s) core work is the rescue and rehabilitation of injured, stranded and distressed marine mammals.

As CIMWI cares for these animals during their journey back to health, they require fish, medication, medical procedures, ongoing veterinary care and a team of volunteers dedicated to providing daily animal care. These animals also require special facilities for their rehabilitation. The services CIMWI provides and the operational expenses require a substantial amount of people and financial resources.

CIMWI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and relies on private donations, corporate contributions and grants. CIMWI needs your help us fulfill our mission to positively impact conservation through marine mammal rescue, rehabilitation, research and education to promote ocean and human health. You can help by taking one of the following actions:

  • Make a Financial Contribution
  • Give an In-Kind Donation
  • Volunteer

Make a Financial Contribution

CIMWI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and donations are tax deductible as allowed by law (Tax I.D. 77-0648677).  100% of your donation will be applied to helping CIMWI fulfill its mission.

Mail your check to Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute (CIMWI)
PO Box 4250, Santa Barbara, CA 93140

Or use PayPal to make your donation using this link –

Give an In-Kind Donation

You can help by donating something that is on CIMWI’s Wish List below. If you are interested in making an in-kind donation, please contact us for more details at info@cimwi.org.

RESCUE

  • Four Wheel Drive Pick-up Truck – new or used in excellent condition
  • Rescue Nets (specific requirements)
  • Catch Poles (specific requirements)
  • Small, Medium, Large, and Giant Dog Kennels

REHABILITATION:

  • Fish (specific requirements)
  • Rain/Foul Weather Wear Bibs – waterproof, small, medium, large, extra large
  • Exam Gloves (Nitrile) – Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large
  • Heat Mats (specific requirements)
  • Freezers – large chest freezers and walk-in freezer
  • Refrigerator – large walk-in refrigerator

MEDICATION & MEDICAL SUPPLIES:

Please contact us for details about medication and medical supply needs at info@cimwi.org

CLEANING / FACILITY SUPPLIES:

  • Paper Towels
  • Dawn
  • Bleach
  • Simple Green
  • Deck Brushes
  • Scrub Brushes
  • Scouring Pads
  • Squeegees
  • Heavy Duty Trash Bags (not force-flex) – Various Sizes (33 gallon – 55 gallon)
  • Quart and Gallon Ziplock Bags
  • Industrial/Heavy-Duty Hoses

GROUNDSKEEPING / LANDSCAPING: 

  • Tractor
  • Riding Lawn Mower
  • Lawn Mower
  • Weed Whip
  • Chainsaw

GIFT CARDS:

  • Gas – CIMWI is an all-volunteer organization with very dedicated individuals that donate their time and money to help marine mammals in need. Gas cards will go a long way to help  sustain our volunteers’ passion, commitment, ability to respond to reports of stranded marine mammals and volunteer at CIMWI’s facility to help with rehabilitation shifts
  • Costco and Smart & Final – snacks, water, soda, cleaning supplies, etc.
  • Home Depot – general and cleaning supplies

We value your support. Your donations help us make a difference!

Volunteer

CIMWI depends on its team of trained and experienced volunteers to carry out the many duties associated with CIMWI’s operations. There are many ways to get involved!

  • Animal Assessment and Field Data Collection
  • Rescue Efforts and Animal Transport
  • Rehabilitation Shifts
  • Education Program Development and Delivery
  • Facilities Maintenance and Construction
  • Fundraising Efforts
  • Grant Writing
  • Administrative Tasks
  • Special Projects

If you are interested in volunteering with CIMWI,  click here (.pdf) to complete CIMWI’s volunteer application. Please email your completed application to info@cimwi.org or fax it to (805) 963-9684.