The Chicago Yacht Club Foundation exists to bring the joys and benefits of boating to all, with primary focus on youth from underrepresented communities.
CYCF’s year-round programs are structured around four progressive stages that spark curiosity, build familiarity and confidence, develop technical and leadership skills, and open doors to future opportunities on and off the water. Our goal is to foster a love of being on the water and create a lasting connection to Lake Michigan.
Safe, fun, and educational first-time experiences on the water
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Fun, half-day boating experiences provide access to unexplored spaces, creating memorable moments on the water, and sparking curiosity.
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Hands-on sailing experiences with a STEAM-focused curriculum.
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Aquatic safety lessons in pools or the lake that teach essential skills to help them feel more confident, capable, and safe in and around water.
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After-school crafts and projects that bring the nautical world to life in the classroom at partner sites across the city of Chicago.
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Short excursions for first-time boaters that provide an exciting, new experience in a controlled setting with friends.
Tuition-free sailing camps that build comfort and familiarity
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A week of fun and educational boating activities—sailing, swimming, and adventures like fishing out of Belmont Harbor.
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Week-long camp for youth ages 10–18 to share an intro to boating with sailing on CYCF's J/100's, swimming, and fishing.
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Six- to eight-week swim lessons build water confidence while focusing on skill development, stroke proficiency, and overall swim technique.
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4-day sailing camp designed to introduce dozens of new sailors to the excitement of being on Lake Michigan in a variety of boats including J/100’s and Sonars.
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Adaptive sailing for youth with disabilities, in partnership with the Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Foundation.
Skill-building programs and financial support
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Financial assistance to help Chicago youth participate in sailing education all across the Chicagoland area.
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Lead HER Ship is a girls’ adventure that builds confidence, leadership, and teamwork through a 5-day immersive sailing experience on a tall ship.
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Sea Scout ship Privateer, the oldest Sea Scout ship in the nation, is a youth-led program that builds sailing, leadership, and seamanship skills through year-round training and adventure.
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Week-long camp for ages 10–18 to refine keelboat skills, grow confidence, and deepen boating knowledge aboard CYCF’s J/100s.
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After-school keelboat program for high schoolers to build skills, teamwork, and comfort on J/100s on Lake Michigan.
Opportunities that reduce financial barriers to long-term success
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The InSPIRE Scholarship fund provides postsecondary scholarships for Chicagoland youth who participated in Foundation programs.
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Provides financial assistance to Chicagoland sailors as they compete in elite regattas.
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Meet our grantees!
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InSPIRE Scholars are invited to apply for summer internships tailored to their career aspirations.
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The Joseph S. Haas Internship offers college students hands-on experience in the nonprofit maritime industry, fostering leadership and community engagement.
