Help Steven Restore Joy to the Ocean

Help Steven Banks Bring Joy Back to the Water

For years, Steven Banks has been the heart behind the Dolphin Love Project , a one-of-a-kind initiative providing accessible boating adventures to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Using his own time, money, and resources—never asking for anything in return—Steven has created unforgettable moments for hundreds of people who rarely get the chance to feel the ocean breeze or witness dolphins dancing in the waves.

But one of the many storms from 2024 changed everything. The storm destroyed Steven’s beloved boat—the very vessel that brought joy, freedom, and connection to so many.

Yet, Steven didn’t stop- and never asked for help.

Instead of turning down the flood of requests from Best Buddies participants and others in the disability community, Steven rented boats out of pocket to keep the magic alive. He refused to let anyone miss out on the wonder of being on the water—because to Steven, every person deserves that joy.

We’ve seen it with our own eyes: the smiles, the laughter, the sense of peace and inclusion that Steven brings with every trip.

Now, it’s our turn to give back.

We’re raising funds to provide Steven Banks with a wheelchair-accessible pontoon boat, so he can continue to do what he loves—for the people he loves—without barriers.

Let’s show Steven that his community sees him, appreciates him, and is ready to rally around him. Every dollar brings us closer to getting him back on the water—where he belongs.

Donate today and be a part of something beautiful.