Divers and dive industry organizations have raised $220,961 for the families who lost loved ones in the Conception disaster. Thirty-four divers perished when the vessel caught fire on September 2 in California’s Channel Islands.
Image: Santa Barbara County Fire Department
“It has been heartening to see the dive industry and the community of divers around the world come together to help those most affected by this terrible tragedy,” said Bill Ziefle, DAN president and CEO.
The majority of the donations were made by individuals. In addition to the outpouring of support by divers worldwide, the following organizations contributed to the fund and advanced marketing outreach:
- American Academy of Underwater Sciences
- California Diving News
- Catalina Cylinders
- DAN
- Dolphin Divers of Sacramento
- DUI
- Historical Diving Society
- NAUI
- PADI
- PSI/PCI
- Scubapro
- SDI
- SSI
- Undercurrent
- Upper Ojai Search and Rescue Team
- Women Divers Hall of Fame
One hundred percent of the money raised will be given to the victims’ families, and families who lost more than one member will receive a full share for each. Disbursement of the funds will begin by the end of the year.