As divers, we know that tackling two of the biggest threats facing our ocean – marine debris and over-exploitation of shark and ray species – is a real challenge, one that we must address together if we are to secure a brighter future for the ocean and its wildlife.

This Endangered Species Day, May 15, join us in recognizing the urgent conservation efforts needed to protect marine species by taking Project AWARE’s new My Ocean Challenge - a new, exciting way for you to fundraise to protect marine wildlife and their habitat.

Our trash underwater poses a serious threat to endangered marine species and damages vital underwater habitats such as coral reefs and seagrass beds. Shark fishing continues to be largely unregulated around the world. Overfishing, bycatch and finning – slicing off a shark's fins and discarding the body at sea - kills thousands of sharks every day.

From running a marathon to baking cakes, participating in a sponsored abseil event to "donating your birthday", your fundraising challenge supports Project AWARE’s campaigns – Marine Debris and Sharks in Peril - and fuels the grassroots action and policy change necessary to ensure a clean, healthy ocean planet for us today and for future generations.

Endangered Species Day highlights the plight of many at-risk and critically endangered species of wild animals and the everyday actions that individuals like you can take to help protect them. Our ocean is facing tough challenges. Your challenge? Fundraise for its protection.

Are you up for the challenge?

Go to projectaware.org/fundraise to choose how you would like to fundraise for ocean protection. From climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to giving up one of your favorite activities for a day, week or month – the possibilities are endless! No matter what you choose, the Project AWARE fundraising team will provide you with support along the way.

Beginning on Endangered Species Day 2015, the first ten fundraisers to raise $500 or more will also be awarded with a Quikpod selfie stick so you can show the world how you took on the My Ocean Challenge!

My Ocean Challenge makes it fun and easy to make a difference. Make tackling some of the biggest challenges our ocean and its wildlife are facing your My Ocean Challenge. Visit www.projectaware.org/fundraise to kick off your My Ocean Challenge this Endangered Species Day and beyond!

Photo courtesy of Theresa Webb - Galaxsea Divers, sponsored abseil event