Below you’ll find answers to common questions about MAR’s mission, programs, and how to get involved from volunteering and donations to partnerships and our online store. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out through our Contact page and we’ll be happy to help.
What is MAR and what does it stand for?
MAR – Mindful Action for Regeneration is an environmental nonprofit based in St. Petersburg, Florida. Its mission is to connect people with nature to inspire care, responsibility, and collaborative action that regenerates ecosystems and strengthens the well-being of people and the planet.
Where is MAR located and where do you operate?
MAR is headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida. Its work spans the greater Tampa Bay area, including projects across Pinellas and Hillsborough counties.
What are MAR’s programs?
MAR’s work encompasses three programs: TREE (restoring native habitats and planting trees), BLUE (protecting coastal and marine environments), and SOL (fostering healing and connection through nature-based wellness experiences). Together they reflect MAR’s belief that when ecosystems thrive, people thrive too.
How long has MAR been operating?
MAR was incorporated in Florida on August 1, 2022, under its legal name, More Action for Regeneration Inc.
Is MAR a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit?
Yes, MAR is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (legal name: More Action for Regeneration Inc., EIN 88-3661910).
What does “regeneration” mean and why does MAR use it?
For MAR, regeneration goes beyond restoration; it’s a committed approach to renewing ecosystems, communities, and the human spirit. MAR’s guiding values (the “MAR Way”) include Joy, Integrity, Belonging, Excellence, Curiosity, Resilience.
How is MAR different from other environmental nonprofits in Tampa Bay?
MAR is built around the belief that people and nature are not separate – healing one heals the other. That’s why MAR’s work doesn’t stop at planting a tree or cleaning a beach; it’s designed to rebuild the relationship between people and the natural world, so that care for the environment becomes personal, not abstract.
This shows up in the way MAR structures its programs: TREE and BLUE restore land and water, while SOL turns that same restorative energy inward, offering forest therapy, mindful walks, and nature-based wellness experiences that help people heal alongside the ecosystems they’re helping to regenerate. The idea is that when someone plants a tree, pulls invasive species, or walks through a guided hike, they’re not just performing a task, they’re forming a connection that makes them a lasting steward, not a one-time volunteer.
What is the TREE program?
TREE restores and regenerates the natural environment by planting native trees, cultivating pollinator habitats, removing invasive species, and caring for the spaces that sustain us. Through community engagement, education, and hands-on action, TREE empowers people to nurture thriving ecosystems and deepen their connection to nature. Together, we grow healthier lands, stronger communities, and lasting stewardship for the planet.
Why does MAR focus on native trees?
Native trees are adapted to Florida’s climate and soil, which means they need far less water, fertilizer, and maintenance than non-native species once established. They’ve evolved to handle Florida’s heat, seasonal droughts, sandy soils, and hurricane-force storms without extra intervention. That resilience matters in a region where extreme weather is only becoming more frequent.
Native trees also better support local wildlife and pollinators. Species like slash pine, live oak, and sweetbay magnolia provide food and shelter that native birds, insects, and mammals have relied on for thousands of years – something ornamental or imported species simply can’t replicate. Non-native trees often provide little to no ecological value, and some can even become invasive, crowding out the native plants that local wildlife depends on.
This native-first approach also ties directly into MAR’s broader mission of regeneration: a native tree planted today doesn’t just survive on its own, it becomes part of a living system that continues to support Tampa Bay’s environment for generations, with minimal ongoing care from MAR or the community.
What is the BLUE program?
BLUE restores and protects coastal and marine environments by expanding access to nature, engaging communities in hands-on conservation, and inspiring connection to the sea. Through beach cleanups, living seawall projects, and innovative marine restoration efforts, BLUE strengthens the health and resilience of our waters. By combining education, outreach, and collective action, we empower people to become stewards of the ocean—preserving the beauty and vitality of the ecosystems we all depend on.
What is the SOL program?
Named after the Spanish word for sun, SOL represents light, renewal, and the energy that sustains life. SOL fosters well-being through the restorative power of nature, creating accessible experiences that inspire healing, reflection, and connection. Through nature retreats, guided mindful walks, yoga and sound healing in nature, forest therapy, and other immersive experiences, we help individuals restore balance, renew their spirit, and strengthen their relationship with the natural world. By blending mindfulness, community, and the outdoors, SOL cultivates spaces where both people and the planet can thrive in harmony—illuminating the path toward regeneration from within.
How can I volunteer with MAR?
You can sign up for any upcoming TREE, BLUE, or SOL event through MAR’s events page at wearemar.org/events.
Do I need experience to volunteer with MAR?
No experience is necessary – MAR events are designed to welcome first-time volunteers alongside returning ones, with guidance provided on-site.
What should I bring to a MAR volunteer event?
Bring sun protection, a reusable water bottle, wear closed-toe shoes, and come ready for hands-on outdoor work. Some events call for extra gear depending on the activity or location, so be sure to check the event listing and keep an eye on the pre-event emails MAR sends out, which will note any additional items you should bring.
How old do you have to be to volunteer with MAR?
There’s no strict minimum age to volunteer with MAR – kids and teens are welcome to join in on tree plantings, cleanups, and other hands-on events. Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult for the day.
Can groups or corporate teams volunteer with MAR?
Yes, MAR has hosted corporate volunteer days, including past events with Accenture and Sila Realty Trust. Reach out through the Contact page to arrange a group day.
Does MAR offer volunteer hours verification for students?
Yes, MAR provides volunteer hours verification for students who need documentation for school, scholarship, or community service requirements. Let the event organizer know at check-in and MAR can confirm the hours you completed.
How can I donate to MAR?
You can donate securely online at wearemar.org/donate.
Is my donation to MAR tax deductible?
Yes. MAR is recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. No goods or services were provided in exchange for your donation unless otherwise noted on your receipt. Please retain your donation receipt for tax purposes, and consult your tax advisor regarding your specific situation.
Does MAR accept in-kind donations?
Yes, MAR accepts in-kind donations of goods and services, such as native trees and plants, event supplies, raffle items, and other materials that support its programs and events. If you would like to offer an in-kind donation, reach out through MAR’s Contact page at wearemar.org/contact to coordinate.
How does MAR use its donations?
Every individual donation goes directly to MAR’s programs. Thanks to a dedicated operations grant that covers all of MAR’s administrative costs, 100% of your donation goes straight toward making regeneration a reality including planting trees, restoring coastlines, expanding ocean education, and hosting nature-based wellness community events across Tampa Bay.
Can I fundraise for MAR?
Yes, MAR welcomes peer-to-peer and third-party fundraising on its behalf. If you’d like to organize a fundraiser for MAR, reach out through the Contact page at wearemar.org/contact to coordinate.
How can my organization collaborate with MAR on a project?
MAR regularly partners with local governments, nonprofits, and businesses. Reach out via the Contact page to propose a collaboration.
Do purchases from the MAR store support the nonprofit?
Yes, every shop purchase directly supports MAR’s mission of connecting people with nature and protecting Florida’s ecosystems.
Does MAR ship nationally?
MAR’s online shop ships nationally within the U.S., but does not currently offer international shipping.
What is MAR’s return policy?
All sales are final. Because every purchase directly funds MAR’s conservation mission in Tampa Bay, we are unable to accept returns or issue refunds for reasons other than damaged or defective items.
To qualify for a refund or replacement due to a damaged/defective item, you must contact us within 7 days of delivery with the information listed below.
What to include in your request:
Send your request to hello@wearemar.org with the subject line: Damaged Item – Order #[your order number]
Once we verify the damage or defect, we will offer one of the following at our discretion:
