Our Mission
The mission of Going Coastal is to promote and facilitate sustainable coastal travel, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. The organization aims to empower individuals by building awareness of their surroundings and enhancing their understanding and participation in coastal communities. Going Coastal strives to educate people about the valuable resources found along the waterfront, including natural ecosystems, historical landmarks, and cultural heritage. The organization works towards creating a sense of responsibility and active involvement in preserving and protecting these coastal environments for future generations.
Our Purpose
Going Coastal was formed in 2004 to help create positive, enduring change in the world. New experience, travel and discovery changes lives. Through various initiatives, programs, and partnerships, Going Coastal promotes sustainable travel practices, advocates for responsible coastal development, and fosters a sense of community and stewardship among individuals who share a love for coastal regions. Ultimately, the purpose of Going Coastal, Inc. is to inspire and empower people to connect with, appreciate, and actively contribute to the sustainable future of our coastal areas.
Our Story
We started Going Coastal for the love of water and the zone of transition where water meets land, the zone is highly vulnerable to human activities and natural hazards. Going Coastal serves as a platform for educating individuals about the invaluable resources found along the waterfront and promoting sustainable coastal practices. By immersing themselves in the coastal environment through activities people gain a firsthand appreciation for the natural and cultural treasures that exist along the water’s edge. It’s an opportunity to learn about the delicate ecosystems, historical landmarks, and the importance of preserving these spaces for future generations.
who we are
We accomplish our mission through educational, cultural and historical projects on behalf of the community at large, while we rely on numerous advisors who help guide our mission and shape our programs.
Barbara La Rocco, president
Barbara’s professional background includes expertise in corporate development, partnership marketing and community outreach programs. This experience was gained during the 20 years she spent in the event and entertainment industries, having been the director of sponsorship for the New York Racing Association and the TV Food Network, and director of Special Events, Public Relations and Marketing for high-end beach resorts and corporate conference centers. Barbara earned her BA degree from the University of Central Florida, where her accomplishments include organizing environmental cleanup campaigns for the degraded Weekiva Springs. Beyond this, Barbara initiated the Adopt-a-Highway program in the coastal community of Beaufort County and Hilton Head, SC. She is the recipient of the Disney Community Service, Keep America Beautiful, Pitch-In, and the EPA Environmental Quality Awards for her work on behalf of the environment. Barbara authored “Going Coastal NYC” and “A Maritime History of NY, epilogue”, as well as, several White Papers on Urban Waterfronts. Her journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of perseverance, innovation, and a genuine desire to make a difference. With her unwavering passion and dedication, Barbara continues to shape industries, empower communities, and leave a lasting legacy of positive impact.
Zhennya Slootskin, secretary/treasurer
Zhennya Slootskin is a cartographer and web designer who has created hundreds of maps detailing every mile of New York City coastline for the guidebook “Going Coastal NYC” and educational maps for boaters and paddlers. She is co‐founder of Going Coastal, Inc. Ms. Slootskin has a Masters Degree in Geography and Graduate Certification in Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) from City University of New York Hunter. Her undergraduate study was in economics at Franklin College, Switzerland, after which she spent 10 years as a financial analyst and equities trader on Wall Street. Like many New Yorkers, she was drawn to the waterfront after the events of 9/11 and she has been working to improve our coastal environment and quality of life for the future ever since. Zhennya received the Society of Women Geographers Fellowship “for women who know no boundaries” for her thesis on Portolan Charts, the world’s oldest navigation maps. In addition to her business ventures and philanthropic pursuits, Zhennya is an avid adventurer and lifelong learner. She embraces challenges, constantly seeking new experiences that push her outside of her comfort zone and broaden her horizons. Whether it’s exploring different cultures, learning Latin, engaging in outdoor activities, or immersing herself in creative pursuits, Zhennya approaches life with enthusiasm and an insatiable thirst for knowledge.
BUY OUR STUFF
Gratitude
Reflecting upon two decades of achievements, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those with whom we’ve collaborated in partnership. Every stride we’ve made is a direct result of the backing we’ve received from numerous individuals, institutions, benefactors, community and business partners, as well as the organizations that have enriched our journey throughout the years. Please accept a big thank you this would not have been possible without your support.
BUY OUR STUFF
