​Protecting the Blue: A Life Committed to Conservation
From innovative financial ventures to hands-on wildlife conservation—discover how Thomas Hale blends entrepreneurial drive with a deep commitment to environmental impact.

Thomas Hale, board member of the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, brings bold vision and tireless dedication to ocean conservation. PMMC is a leader in marine mammal rescue, rehabilitation, and education, providing critical care to seals, sea lions, dolphins, and whales stranded along the Southern California coast. His work supports the center’s mission to protect and preserve the ocean’s most vulnerable species.
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Through its partnership with PMMC, UNI Global Payment Solutions helps expand the reach of whale rescue, recovery, and public education efforts. Together, they are creating a ripple effect of awareness and action—championing marine life, protecting our oceans, and inspiring a more sustainable future.
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The ocean is the planet’s pulse. If we fail to protect it, we fail to protect ourselves.” — Thomas Hale
They’re here for us. Let’s be there for them.

Thomas Hale is a dedicated board supporter of the C4 Foundation, established in honor of Navy SEAL Charles Humphrey Keating IV. C4 delivers neuroscience-based wellness programs designed specifically for active-duty SEALs and their families, empowering them to manage stress, strengthen emotional bonds, and reenter civilian life with resilience.
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With its 560+‑acre ranch in San Diego, Therapy programs range from family retreats to workshops backed by scientific methods, offering SEALs and their loved ones a sanctuary to heal, reconnect, and thrive together.
In parallel with his ocean-driven conservation efforts, Thomas is also deeply committed to safeguarding vital wildlife populations. Through active involvement with The Elephant Cooperation, he advances ethical, community-centered strategies for elephant preservation.
His efforts emphasize sustainable coexistence—championing education, habitat protection, and policy frameworks that honor both the ecological and cultural significance of elephants, while supporting on-the-ground conservation projects across Asia and Africa.


Thomas Hale is a passionate advocate for ocean safety and youth development, demonstrated through his ongoing support of the Laguna Beach Ocean Lifeguard Foundation (LBOLF). Deeply connected to the Southern California coastline, Thomas recognizes the vital role lifeguards play in saving lives, educating the public, and fostering a strong sense of responsibility in the next generation of ocean stewards.
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His contributions help fund essential lifeguard training programs, community outreach initiatives, scholarships for aspiring lifeguards, and the acquisition of modern rescue equipment. By supporting LBOLF, Thomas not only backs those who protect our waters daily but also helps nurture a culture of preparedness, leadership, and service. His commitment reflects a broader mission: safeguarding lives while strengthening the communities that call the ocean home.
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Thomas Hale is a visionary financial strategist, successful entrepreneur, and purpose-driven business leader known for his bold, results-oriented approach — both in high-stakes boardrooms and adventurous endeavors.
As the founder and principal of several innovative financial companies, Thomas has built a reputation for designing strategic funding solutions, advancing businesses through cutting-edge payment processing and merchant services, and promoting ethical, sustainable growth with measurable impact.
​Deeply committed to conservation and philanthropy, Thomas serves on the board of the Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Orange County, where he actively supports whale recovery and rescue operations. He is also a dedicated advocate for African wildlife, working with The Elephant Cooperation to raise global awareness around elephant endangerment and habitat preservation.
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Thomas’s commitment to service extends to the heroes at home. He donates time and resources to the C4 Foundation, supporting U.S. Navy SEAL combat veterans and their families as they transition from active duty to civilian life.
​Whether navigating the complexities of global finance, plunging into the icy waters of international swim challenges, or sailing in competitive regattas, Thomas lives with relentless purpose. His mission is clear: to build, to give, and to push life to the fullest — all while leaving the world better than he found it.
Thomas Hale
Jeff is a real estate investor, developer, and mentor with 40+ years of experience. He has owned, developed, and transacted over 4M+ SF across the Western U.S. and Hawaii in industrial, multifamily, retail, self-storage, and land development.
A USC graduate (BS, MRED), Jeff was a founder of A-American Self-Storage with Ed Olson and a Director of Development for a major industrial developer. He also co-founded Wilshire Securities Inc. (Broker-Dealer, Series 22 & 39) and invested in Snake Pharm Enterprises, developing canine anti-venom.A licensed California Real Estate Broker & General Contractor (B1 & C8) for 30+ years, Jeff has guest lectured at USC, UCLA, UC Irvine, and NAIOP.
An avid outdoorsman, he completed the Adidas TransAlp Challenge, a 428-mile race across the Alps. He is passionate about mentorship, veterans, and youth programs, previously serving as National Trustee & Treasurer for Project Healing Waters, supporting 3,500+ veterans.
Jeff Potter