Creating change one paddle stroke at a time

Stroke Your Eco was founded by Lynn Brotherston, a New Jersey-based environmental advocate, community organizer, and passionate waterway conservationist dedicated to protecting local ecosystems one cleanup at a time. Through her nonprofit initiative, “Stroke Your Eco: Paddle for the Planet,” Lynn has inspired hundreds of volunteers to take action against pollution in rivers, lakes, beaches, and coastal communities throughout New Jersey. 

What began as a personal frustration while kayaking through trash-filled waterways during the COVID-19 pandemic quickly evolved into a movement. Rather than accept the growing pollution she witnessed in places she loved, Lynn decided to create change herself. Drawing inspiration from her late grandmother, Jean O’Connor — who instilled in her the importance of giving back and helping others — Lynn used her inheritance to launch Stroke Your Eco and build a community centered around environmental stewardship, volunteerism, and education. 

Known for her energy, compassion, and grassroots leadership style, Lynn has helped organize dozens of cleanup events across Monmouth and Ocean Counties, removing tens of thousands of pounds of debris from waterways and shorelines. Under her leadership, Stroke Your Eco has partnered with environmental groups, municipalities, colleges, and community organizations to spread awareness about sustainability, litter prevention, and protecting marine wildlife. 

Beyond environmental activism, Lynn is also recognized for her commitment to community service and philanthropy. From feeding the homeless as a child to dedicating her adult life to giving back, helping others has always been part of her identity. Friends, volunteers, and supporters often describe her as someone who leads with heart — turning cleanup events into uplifting community experiences that bring together people from all walks of life around a shared purpose. 

Professionally, Lynn has built a successful career in sales and leadership while balancing her nonprofit mission. Her background in relationship-building and community engagement has helped grow Stroke Your Eco into a respected grassroots environmental organization with an expanding reach throughout New Jersey. 

Today, Lynn Brotherston continues to advocate for cleaner waterways, stronger environmental responsibility, and community-driven action. Through Stroke Your Eco, she hopes to inspire people everywhere to realize that even small acts — one paddle stroke, one bag of trash, one volunteer at a time — can create meaningful change for the planet.