it's time to
STAND UP TO TRASH
Protect our ocean by raising awareness of the harmful impact of plastic pollution through environmental education that empowers future generations.
Through our four pillars—Prevention, Removal, Education & Awareness and Community Engagement, we work to create a healthier planet for future generations.
100+ Million
Marine animals die each year from plastic ingestion and entanglement
51
Trillion
Pieces of plastic in our oceans
51,000,000,000,000
500+
Ocean "dead zones" where no life can survive
1
Earth for Us to Protect
Vote for
Stand Up To Trash
Because Our Ocean
Deserves a Voice!
At Stand Up To Trash, our hearts beat for the ocean and
every creature beneath the surface.
In partnership with local schools, community groups, the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation and devoted volunteers, we’ve built programs
that turn inspiration into action right here in Dana Point!
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Every month we host a blended event of yoga, beach cleanup and “Lunch & Learn,” helping neighbors of all ages connect with our coast and learn practical ways to reduce waste, prevent plastic pollution and protect habitats.
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Our “Ocean Starts at Your Front Door,” “Sea The Change,” “Harbor Helpers,” and “Stand Up To Trash Club” programs bring hands-on education, youth ambassadors and community engagement directly into classrooms, neighborhoods and open space.
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To date, we’ve removed over 17,000 pounds of trash and educated more than 13,000 individuals in the region, with each cleanup and each school visit sealing a new pledge to care for our coast.
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From collaborating with local Indigenous partners in cultural-environmental events to working side-by-side with Title I schools and youth organizations, our reach is broad, inclusive and community-driven.
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And an ongoing community favorite: the Dana Point Scavenger Hunt, a month-long adventure through local history that helps families and classrooms explore our City in a fun and meaningful way year after year.
When you vote for Stand Up To Trash, you’re choosing a nonprofit that doesn’t sit quietly in the background. You’re choosing a team of volunteers, kids, educators and ocean-lovers who dive in, get their hands (and hearts) muddy and sandy and leave lasting change behind.
Make your vote count. Make our ocean count.
Vote for Stand Up To Trash for Best Local Nonprofit in the
Dana Point Times Best of Awards.
Together, we’re not just picking up trash — we’re picking up the future.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
One of our most common questions is “How can I make a difference?” 🌊
The answer is—you can start today, for the ocean and for your health!
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Join a beach cleanup and see the difference your hands can make.
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Reduce your daily plastic use—protecting not only marine life but also your own health from harmful microplastics.
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Donate to power our programs and expand our reach.
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Become an Ambassador and inspire your community to live plastic-wise.
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Pick up trash whenever you see it—every piece matters.
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Become a Member and be part of lasting change.
Every action you take protects our oceans, our wildlife, and our own well-being. Together, we can turn the tide, starting now! 💙
Recent Awards
A Proud Moment!
Vicki Patterson was honored with two awards from Assemblywoman Laurie Davies — Woman of the Year and Excellence in Environmental Stewardship,
recognizing her outstanding dedication and impact.
We’re honored to celebrate Vicki Patterson, who was recognized by Supervisor Katrina Foley with the Women Making a Difference Award—an acknowledgment of her inspiring leadership and lasting impact on our environment and community.
Volunteer of the Quarter!
We are excited to announce that our Founder Vicki Patterson has been recognized by Mayor Joseph Muller and the City Council of Dana Point by honoring her with a Certificate of Recognition as Volunteer of the Quarter.
The team here at Stand Up To Trash is continuously motivated by the dedication and love that Vicki Patterson has towards keeping our beaches and ocean clean. This recognition was possible by the outreach and open arms this community has shown us.
The Dana Point Harbor Partners commissioned artists Joel Dean Stockdill and Yustina Salnikova
to create this stunning sculpture using recycled plastic.
We’re proud to have contributed the “barnacles” on the whale, crafted from plastic bottles
collected during our cleanups.
It’s an honor to be part of such a meaningful and impactful work of art
that brings awareness through creativity.
Be The Change
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