ÉcoMaris mobilizes the maritime industry to bolster social and ecological awareness among youth

The social enterprise behind Quebec's first sail-training vessel, ÉcoMaris, has launched "A Message in a Bottle" campaign to raise $2 million. This project is backed by various maritime industry partners, including Fednav (a Green Marine participant), the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (a Green Marine association member), and the Comité sectoriel de main-d’œuvre de l'industrie maritime (Quebec’s human resources sectorial committee for the maritime industry). 

The campaign aims to make it possible for more young people to benefit from the ÉcoMaris programs focused on social reintegration and sustainability awareness.

"Our vision is to triple our impact by reaching more youth and fostering a sustainable future" founder Simon Paquin says. 

Raised funds will support year-round activities, triple the number of young participants annually, and create additional job opportunities, especially for marginalized and Indigenous communities.

Since its inception, ÉcoMaris has helped more than 4,000 young people, with 85% resuming studies or employment after their experience on the sail-training vessel.