Upon moving to the Florida Keys, the McNew family fell in love with the exotic wildlife, beautiful water and magnificent coral reefs, which is why they call this place home year round. Tourists come and tourists go; they take with them many souvenirs and lasting memories, but often leave behind empty bottles, trash, and pollutants that litter the islands. In order to do their part in keeping the area clean, the entire McNew family walks along the island shores collecting items that litter the mangroves and beaches. They then recycle as much as possible to create usable products and décor. In addition, many people discard items that they have simply fallen out of love with. The McNew family takes these items, repurposes and refurbishes them so they can be loved again.

Ultimately, the purpose of this organization is not only to help care for our Islands now, but also to nurture appreciation in generations to come. Combing for items to upcycle is a family affair that helps to shape positive, lifelong attitudes, values, and patterns of behavior toward our precious Florida Keys.

“Our goal is to turn our small business into a Non-profit Organization, We feel that if we are able to become a true non-profit agency, the combination of our unique product with the incentive of a tax deduction, our business will be a true success financially and morally as we spread our conservation efforts,” says Alena McNew, co-owner of mcNEWagain.

This season mcNEWagain has several collections to choose from. “Reloved Reliveables” are a wide variety of reloved furniture and home décor. “Woodys” are original paintings and art pieces on salt-blasted wood. “Beach bulbs” are Tiki Torches made from upcycled bottles collected from the mangroves. “Surfer Suds are soap dispensers made from recycled bottles found in the mangroves. Patrons can choose from an ever-changing inventory or custom order work to be completed on a piece that they own.

To find out more information about mcNEWagain, to purchase products or to donate to their cause, please like them on Facebook at http://facebook.com/mcnewagain or contact Joshua and Alena McNew at [email protected] or 786-565-5062.