Business Details
28 Years
experience
Youth Boating Programs in New Bedford, MA
Founded in 1998, Community Boating Center (CBC) has dedicated itself to teaching positive life values to youth through boating. Our mission emerged from a vision by a New Bedford social worker who recognized the transformative potential of marine-based education. Over 25 years, we've expanded from 5 to 100 boats, serving over 3,000 youth annually through year-round programs. Our approach combines hands-on activities like sailing, boat building, and aquaculture with mentorship to create safe, engaging learning environments. CBC's staff and volunteers serve as role models, emphasizing teamwork, responsibility, and respect.We prioritize accessibility, ensuring our programs are open to all youth aged 5-24 regardless of background. Our impact extends beyond technical skills, fostering personal growth and community connections. With two locations in New Bedford, we've become a leader in local youth development. Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is reflected in our non-discrimination policy and program accessibility. Through partnerships and community engagement, we continue expanding opportunities for youth to explore marine environments and develop life skills.
Services
Youth Sailing Programs
Boat Building Workshops
Adult Sailing Lessons
Scholastic Sailing
Ocean Stewardship Education
Aquaculture Programs
Remote-Controlled Boating
Summer Youth Sailing
Instructor Training
Family Boating Programs
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- 25+ years of experience in youth maritime education
- 100+ boats serving 3,000+ youth annually
- US SAILING Certified Instructors lead programs
- Diverse programs for ages 5-24 including sailing and boat building
- Commitment to accessibility and inclusive programming
Services
Youth Sailing Programs
CBC offers comprehensive sailing programs for youth aged 5-24, including summer camps and year-round instruction. Our US SAILING Certified Instructors teach technical skills while emphasizing teamwork and personal growth. Participants gain confidence through hands-on experience in a supportive, character-building environment.
Boat Building Workshops
Youth engage in hands-on boat building projects that combine technical skills with creative problem-solving. These workshops teach craftsmanship, engineering principles, and project teamwork. The program fosters pride through creating functional vessels used in our sailing programs.
Ocean Stewardship Education
CBC integrates environmental education with boating activities, teaching marine ecology and conservation practices. Students learn about local ecosystems through practical experiences on the water. The program cultivates environmental responsibility and scientific curiosity.
Adult Sailing Lessons
We provide sailing instruction for adults through US Powerboating courses and recreational programs. Classes accommodate all skill levels from beginners to experienced sailors. Participants learn safety protocols, navigation, and boat handling in a supportive environment.
Aquaculture Programs
Our aquaculture initiatives teach sustainable marine farming techniques through hands-on projects. Youth learn about marine biology, food systems, and environmental stewardship. The program connects participants with career opportunities in marine industries.
People
Sarah Herman
Head of School
Sarah Herman leads Our Sisters' School and partners with CBC to provide marine education opportunities for students. She advocates for experiential learning that connects classroom education with real-world applications in New Bedford's maritime environment.
Amy Larkin
Development Director
Amy Larkin oversees CBC's fundraising initiatives and donor relations. With extensive nonprofit experience, she builds community partnerships and manages philanthropic programs that support youth development through boating education.
Questions
What is Community Boating Center's mission?
CBC teaches positive life values to youth through boating programs, focusing on character development, marine education, and community engagement for ages 5-24 in New Bedford.
What programs do you offer for youth?
We provide sailing instruction, boat building workshops, aquaculture projects, ocean stewardship education, and remote-controlled boating activities for youth aged 5-24 throughout the year.
Are adult sailing lessons available?
Yes, we offer adult sailing lessons through US Powerboating courses and recreational programs for all skill levels at our New Bedford locations.
How can I support CBC's programs?
Support options include annual fund donations, employer matching gifts, planned giving, in-kind donations of boats/marine supplies, and volunteering opportunities.
Do you have accessibility policies?
CBC maintains strict non-discrimination policies and digital accessibility standards to ensure all programs are available to participants regardless of ability or background.
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