Leading the Charge for Cleaner Beaches
A shared passion for protecting Florida’s coastal ecosystems turned into a growing environmental movement when in May of 2025 Reef Boyz officially launched as a nonprofit dedicated to reef restoration, shoreline cleanups, and pollution awareness across South Florida.
The organization was co-founded by longtime reef cleanup diver Mike Squillace and Florida native Justin Spute, combining decades of hands-on environmental work with a vision for mobilizing the broader community. Squillace had spent more than 40 years diving South Florida reefs, quietly removing debris ranging from fishing line and aluminum cans to heavy lead weights that accumulate over time in coral ecosystems.
Spute, who grew up in Stuart, Florida, developed his connection to the water early in life. Much of his childhood was spent fishing, boating, and swimming along the Treasure Coast, along with attending environmental studies camps during the summer. That upbringing helped shape the belief that conservation is not just about removing trash, but about building awareness among the people who live closest to the water.
When the two connected over their shared concerns about marine pollution, the concept for Reef Boyz began to take form. Rather than focusing only on underwater cleanups, the founders wanted to build a community organization that could bring together volunteers from many backgrounds to protect Florida’s coastal environments.
A central part of that effort has been the involvement of veterans and students. Veterans were intentionally placed in leadership roles within the organization because of the discipline, teamwork, and leadership experience they bring to large projects. At the same time, involving young people became a priority.
“If students understand the real impact of pollution on reefs and wildlife early in life, they become part of the solution,” Spute explained.
Another key contributor to the organization’s growth has been Dan Squillace, Mike’s brother and one of the co-founders of Reef Boyz. Through his community relationships and outreach efforts, Dan has helped the organization build partnerships with municipalities, schools, and major local events, opening doors that have allowed Reef Boyz to expand its impact across South Florida.
Since its launch in May, Reef Boyz has organized 12 cleanup events throughout the region, including efforts in Vero Beach, Dania Beach, Pompano Beach, and Boca Raton. One of the largest events partnered with Grandview Preparatory School, where nearly 90 students participated in a shoreline cleanup.
The work addresses a growing environmental challenge. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, more than 11 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean each year, much of it originating from land-based litter that eventually reaches coastal waters and coral reefs.
Reef Boyz aims to intercept that debris before it can damage marine ecosystems. Volunteers collect trash from beaches, parks, and waterfront areas, preventing it from entering the ocean and breaking down into harmful microplastics.
The organization’s next major community cleanup will take place April 25 from 9 a.m. to noon at 1040 N Pompano Beach Blvd, Pompano Beach, FL 33062. Volunteers of all ages are encouraged to participate.
Participants will receive Reef Boyz volunteer T-shirts, and will be able to borrow natural bamboo pickers and steel buckets for trash removal.
As Squillace often reminds volunteers during cleanup events, “Many hands make light work.”
Those interested in volunteering, sponsoring events, or supporting the mission can learn more at www.thereefboyz.com or follow the organization on Instagram at @reefboyzfoundation.
