Effort supports ocean conservation

Peoria, IL-Maui Jim is making a $10,000 contribution to The Ocean Project, a network of more than 1,300 zoos, aquariums, and museums focused on ocean education and conservation, as part of its newest Facebook promotion, “Send a Lei.”

Visitors to the polarized sunglass developer’s Facebook page this year can “like” the company and send one of three virtual flower necklaces to their friends. The company is tracking the number of “likes” from around the world, filling up its online “Aloha-o-Meter.” Each time the meter fills to the top, the company will donate $10,000 to The Ocean Project and will reset the meter.

Maui Jim launched the promotion to prepare for World Oceans Day, June 8, and decided to run the promotion for the entire year in honor of the company’s origins in Hawaii.

“This initiative by Maui Jim demonstrates how people, no matter where they live, can take action to protect the oceans,” said Bill Mott, director of The Ocean Project. “Maui Jim has some of the most loyal and active fans on Facebook, and they’re helping us make a real difference for our oceans.”

Hundreds of World Oceans Day events will be held in dozens of countries around the world June 8. See www.worldoceansday.org for a list of these events.