At Ocean Defenders Alliance (ODA), we’re fortunate to cross paths with volunteers whose enthusiasm lifts the entire crew—and this month, we’re thrilled to celebrate one of them: Hannah Markel. With a long-standing passion for protecting the ocean and an energy that never seems to fade, she brings a spark to every cleanup she joins. Her infectious smile has a way of brightening even the toughest days, reminding us why this work matters and how joyful it can be when done together. Hannah’s commitment and spirit make her an unforgettable part of the ODA family, and we’re proud to honor her as our Volunteer of the Month.
Here are a few words from ODA Founder and President, Kurt Lieber, as he reflects on Hannah and the spirit she brings to our mission.
About 4 years ago, this cute couple attended one of our cleanups at a Southern California wildlife refuge. Little did I know, they were not just good at removing trash from the marshlands. As I got to know them better, it became apparent that they were going to be two young stars in the ODA orbit. I found out they not only had passion for defending the oceans, but they had serious video and social media skills. In fact, they had their own social media company! Soon, they were part of our “behind the scenes” team working hard to help us connect with people on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Heeia Pier, Oahu - ODA Crew with their Catch of the Day!
From left: Fellow California volunteer Kim Cardenas, Kurt, Pete, and Hannah.
On top of their skillsets, they’re so much fun to be with. They’re actually our first ODA dating couple to get married! And now, their family has grown with their first child – Louie. See his adorable ODA Premiere Photo below!
I’m happy we’re finally shining the spotlight on Hannah. Interestingly, Hannah and Pete are actually part of our team creating our Crew Chronicles features not just in doing the social media posts but actually doing the video interviews of each crew member.
I hope you enjoy getting to know Hannah as you read this interview and watch her video. I think you’ll see why I want to commend her for her enthusiasm. It spills over to the whole crew! We’re so fortunate to have her and Pete, not just in the capacity of volunteers but also as our social media experts.
--Captain Kurt
Dear Friend, after you read our Q&A interview with Hannah, be sure to watch her video interview and look at the photo gallery below!
Q: What drew your attention to the ocean and when?
A: I grew up in a land-locked state so visiting the ocean was always a special treat for me. I looked forward to vacationing in Southern California in the summer, not knowing that I would someday live there and volunteer regularly with an organization like ODA. Once I did move here (in 2020), I was instantly drawn to the ocean. My husband and I were lucky enough to live in Laguna Beach for 5 years just mere blocks from the ocean. We spent our weekends snorkeling, swimming, surfing, and being at the beach.
From Left: Hannah is standing next to Kurt and Pete is on the far right.
Q: What are your favorite ODA expeditions?
A: I love assisting on the Southern California boat dives and at the Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge (SBNWR) cleanups. Both types of cleanups are doing really important and hard work. With SBNWR, we are literally getting into the weeds of cleaning up our wetlands. The wetlands are so vital to clean up as they are the last stop that trash and debris hits before heading to the ocean.
Hannah "in the weeds"! ;-)
Q: Any funny stories to share from an ODA cleanup?
A: You wouldn’t believe the kinds of things we find on ODA cleanups. Every time I join a cleanup, there are funny and interesting things that we find (aside from normal rubbish): shoes, hairdryers, mattresses clothing, rubber duckies, and so much more!
When a rubber ducky is no longer cute...
Q: Why do you like volunteering with ODA?
A: I love volunteering with ODA because the organization is actually making a difference in our oceans. We are actually going out there and cleaning up vital marine habitats that is directly and positively impacting the ocean and marine life.
Q: Your husband Pete also volunteers. Can you talk about the positives of volunteering together? Did one or the other start first with ODA or did you both “dive in” at the same time?
A: Yes! Pete and I both volunteer with ODA and it’s amazing! We started volunteering at the same time together and it’s been such an important part of our lives. The best part is now being able to share these experiences and love for the ocean with our 6-month old baby boy (Louie)! Louie has already been on an ODA cleanup!
Q: Why do you think it's important for people to support ODA?
A: It’s important for people to support ODA because we are really doing the work! Kurt (founder) is actively collaborating with government entities, other organizations, and expanding ODA chapters, so the work ODA is doing really makes a big impact. When you volunteer or donate to ODA, you are making a difference!!
Enjoy Hannah’s recorded interview:
Hannah’s enthusiasm is a reminder that protecting the ocean can be joyful work, especially when fueled by genuine passion. Her bright spirit lifts the whole crew, turning sometimes challenging, dirty work into moments of connection, teamwork, and purpose. We hope Hannah’s story encourages you to join in however you can—whether by volunteering your time, spreading the word, or supporting the efforts that make this work possible. Every contribution helps keep our coastlines cleaner, our wildlife safer, and our mission moving forward.
If you’d like to help empower volunteers like Hannah to continue making a real difference, we invite you to support ODA’s cleanup efforts today.
Donate to Keep Cleanups Going!
