Fundraiser will run throughout May and 100% of proceeds will benefit BlueFuture and the NSBC

Watsonville, CA – West Marine announced today a strategic partnership with the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) designed to raise awareness for National Safe Boating Week held May 18-24. Throughout the month of May customers can purchase a West Marine “Wear It” paper life jacket in all West Marine stores. All proceeds will support West Marine’s BlueFuture and the NSBC to continue the combined mission of promoting boating and life jacket safety to boaters.

BlueFuture, founded by West Marine, annually distributes much-needed grants to nonprofit organizations dedicated to getting kids on the water through boating, fishing, paddling and the marine sciences. This past year, 50 organizations received support from the BlueFuture grant program. Through this partnership, West Marine and the NSBC aim to not only increase awareness for safe boating, but also stress the importance of engaging with young boaters to teach them safe habits early in life.

“The National Safe Boating Council is committed to ensuring boater safety while on the water. By working with the NSBC, West Marine’s goal is not only to generate greater awareness for wearing a life jacket, but also to educate boaters on the importance of safe boating habits,” said Laura Barry, director of marketing communications at West Marine. “It’s vitally important that we encourage adults and kids alike to wear life jackets when spending time out on the water.”

Other ways to participate include:

• Those heading out on the water are encouraged to take the online pledge to wear a life jacket and boat responsibly each time on the water.
• Boaters are encouraged to use #wearit when posting on social channels to share their commitment to safe boating activities.
• Participate in Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day on May 17.

In addition, many West Marine stores are featuring free events on boating safety throughout May. To find an event near you, visitwww.westmarine.com/store-finder.

About BlueFuture

BlueFuture is a donor-advised fund set up through the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County, and all donations are fully tax-deductible. During West Marine’s National Safe Boating Month fundraising campaign, donations can be made at checkout in a West Marine store or online. To learn more about BlueFuture, visit westmarine.com/BlueFuture.

About West Marine

For more than 50 years, West Marine has been the premier retailer of boating, fishing, sailing and paddling gear. With more than 240 stores located in 38 states and Puerto Rico and an eCommerce website reaching domestic, international and professional customers, West Marine is recognized as a leading resource for cruisers, sailors, anglers and paddlesports enthusiasts. West Marine employees share the same love for the water as our customers and provide helpful advice on the gear and gadgets they need to be safe and have fun. To learn more about West Marine, please visit the West Marine website at www.westmarine.com.

About the National Safe Boating Council
The National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) was organized in September 1958 and is the national catalyst for recreational boating safety, providing resources and programming to industry partners and the boating community. NSBC’s mission is to be the foremost coalition to advance and promote a safer recreational boating experience through education, outreach and training. Learn more at www.safeboatingcouncil.org.