Support
We are grateful to our supporters who give generously and “make it all happen!” Donations to the Center provide year-round sailing education for youth, social and competitive sailing for all ages, and a strong boat fleet and facility for the whole community to enjoy.
We are a 501c3 organization so gifts of any size are fully tax deductible.
Donate
How to support the Sailing Center
Your financial contribution, at any level, helps keep our Center afloat and thriving. Please consider one or more of the following ways to give.
- Annual Giving – Making an annual, unrestricted gift is one of the most impactful ways to support the long-term success of the Sailing Center. These contributions are used to support essential operating costs and ensure our programs remain strong and accessible. We invite you to join others who give at a level that is meaningful to them and help sustain our mission year after year.
- Scholarships – Scholarships open the door to sailing for children who might not otherwise have the opportunity to participate. Each year, we raise funds to ensure that underserved youth can take part in our educational programs. Our goal is for 20% of youth participants to receive scholarship support, allowing our programs to truly serve the entire community. Children ages five to seventeen are referred through partner organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, Habitat for Humanity, and others, as well as through the KWCSC Scholarship application process. A contribution of $325 provides one child with a full summer camp scholarship. Give one or more scholarships today to make a meaningful and lasting impact in a young person’s life.
- Sail Fund – To support our growing fleet, the Sailing Center must continually repair and replace boats and sails. Heavy use from educational programs and member activities requires ongoing maintenance, updated equipment, and periodic purchases of used or new vessels. Contributions to the Sail Fund directly support the purchase, repair, and upkeep of our boats, ensuring safe and reliable access to the water for all.
- Sponsorship – Local businesses play an important role in supporting the Sailing Center through annual sponsorships. We would welcome the opportunity to discuss partnership opportunities with your business. We also encourage our community to support and thank the generous businesses that support our mission.
Contact Executive Director Ben Hermelin to learn more about sponsorship opportunities at executivedirector@kwcsc.org.
How the Sailing Center is funded
Expenses
- Approximately 60% of our annual expenses support adult and youth sailing programs, serving many children who would otherwise be unable to participate.
- Additional ongoing expenses include boat purchases, fleet and facility maintenance, insurance, and administrative costs.
Income
- 20% of our income comes from membership dues, which we strive to keep affordable.
- 30% comes from grants and donations, including contributions like yours.
- 40% is generated through tuition fees for summer camps, after-school classes, group and private lessons, and other educational programs.
- 10% comes from boat storage fees, including wet slips and on-site storage.
Volunteer
Become a part of our team
Here are ways you can help – in a team, along with others who love the Center:
- Facility/Fleet Maintenance
- Events/Regattas
- Membership/Socials
- Administrative Support
- Fundraising
- Communications/Outreach
- Other – what ideas do you have about how to help make our Center stronger?
Join other Sailing Center volunteers who maintain our boats, docks and facilities, as well as assist with sailing programs and events.
Let us know if you are interested in volunteering at the Sailing Center. Complete this simple form and someone will contact you.
Sponsorship
We sincerely appreciate the many businesses that give generously to support the Key West Community Sailing Center, listed below. Please visit these establishments and thank them! Click on a logo for the company’s website.
Would your business like to sponsor the Sailing Center and help us serve the Key West community? Contact Executive Director Ben Hermelin, executivedirector@kwcsc.org
Gold Level
Silver Level
Your Company Name & Logo Here!
Contact executivedirector@kwcsc.org to learn more about becoming a sponsor.
Bronze Level
Level 4 Sponsors
Level 5 Sponsors
