OREANDA-NEWS. Boston Whaler held its sixth annual "Boatload of Backpacks" fundraiser to help area students start off the new school year on the right foot. This year marked Whaler's biggest ever donation, as more than 150 backpacks filled with school supplies were loaded into a 170 Dauntless and delivered to three local elementary schools.

It was the first time Boston Whaler's new President, Nick Stickler, participated in the event. "Boatload of Backpacks is such a great program, and it was wonderful to be involved firsthand," said Stickler. "Boston Whaler's employees are passionate about building the best boats in the world and supporting success within the local community. We would not be the strong company we are today without the community's support, and we're proud to be able to give back."

On hand to receive the donations were Principal Dr. Jan McGee and Assistant Principal Tina Duncan at Burns Science and Technology Charter School; Principal Carrie Crkvenac and Assistant Principal Jennifer Holmgreen at Indian River Elementary; and Principal Jeff Reaves and Assistant Principal Michele Brown at Edgewater Public School. Each location received more than 50 backpacks containing 2 boxes of Crayola® crayons, 6 glue sticks, scissors, washable markers, 2 spiral notebooks, 24 pencils, erasers and more.

About Boston Whaler: For nearly 60 years, Boston Whaler has been building superior quality unsinkable runabouts, cruisers and center console boats. Founded in 1958 and currently headquartered in Edgewater, Fla., the company's unique foam-cored construction process contributes not only unsurpassed flotation, but also superior ride characteristics and durability. The current product line ranges from 11 to 42 feet and is distributed around the world by a network of exceptional dealers. For more information about The Unsinkable Legend™, please visit www.bostonwhaler.com.  Boston Whaler is owned by Brunswick Corporation, the largest marine manufacturer in the world.