Throughout October 2024, Plastic Ocean Project (POP) solicited votes from their supporters and community members for a chance to win the 4th annual Defender Community Service Award. With this prestigious recognition, a worthy organization will receive gifts of $25,000 from the software company ei3 and a fully customized Land Rover Defender 130.3. Out of five incredible nonprofits, POP has received enough votes to be named a TOP-2 Finalist!

Earlier this year, POP’s dedicated leader, Bonnie Monteleone, was in a devastating car accident totaling the work van and landing her in the hospital with weeks of recovery. Once home, Monteleone dove head-first into finding a solution to replace the beloved “POP-Mobile” gifted to her by her late mother. POP is eternally grateful for Land Rover Cape Fear and their nomination for the Defender Service Awards. Their support allows POP to continue their mission to reduce plastic pollution through cleanups, public education, and scientific research for the benefit of human and environmental health.

On November 23rd, 2024, Tricia Monteleone will be present for the in-person awards announcements and ceremony at Destination Defender in Malibu, California. To thank their charitable supporters and local community, Plastic Ocean Project is hosting a live watch party of the event that same night at Hi-Wire Brewing. This celebration will be held from 9 pm EST- 11 pm EST at 1020 Princess Street, Wilmington, NC 28401. All are welcome to attend and learn this most anticipated result!