Partner Spotlight: Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Foundation
July 25, 2024
by Danyell Shin
Now in its second year, the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation (CYCF) continues its partnership with the Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Foundation and the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. This groundbreaking initiative welcomed children with physical disabilities, ages 8-14, to the Judd Goldman Sailing Center in Burnham Harbor. The program was designed for on-the-water instruction on specially designed adaptive keelboats.
The camp, held on Wednesday mornings for eight weeks, aims to provide young participants with an enriching and empowering sailing experience, fostering a sense of freedom and independence on the water. By partnering with the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation, this year’s camp was able to extend its reach and impact, embodying the shared mission of both organizations to make sailing accessible to all.
The Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Program is renowned for its commitment to inclusivity and offers individuals with disabilities the opportunity to engage in sailing through adaptive techniques and equipment.
At the heart of this collaboration is the belief that sailing is more than just a sport for the elite; it is a transformative experience that builds confidence, resilience, and a sense of community for all. The Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Foundation has a long history of promoting adaptive sailing in the Chicagoland area. The Foundation’s programs are designed to provide individuals with disabilities the skills and confidence needed to sail independently, fostering a sense of accomplishment and empowerment. By partnering with the CYCF, the Foundation can bring its vision to life on a larger scale, reaching more children and significantly impacting the community.
Peter Goldman, President of the Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Foundation, has described sailing as an "equalizer," noting "Once you’re in the boat and you’re able to control the tiller you’re no different than anyone else."
The specially designed keelboats used in the program are equipped with adaptive features to ensure that children with varying physical abilities can actively participate and enjoy the thrill of sailing. Each session was carefully structured to provide a supportive and encouraging environment where campers could learn, explore, and grow. In addition, the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, a leader in rehabilitation and innovative therapeutic approaches, plays a crucial role in the camp’s success. Their expertise in working with children with physical disabilities ensured that the program was fun, safe, and beneficial from a developmental perspective. The camps allow the young participants to receive individualized attention and guidance, making the camp a genuinely inclusive and impactful experience.
EQUIPMENT & SAFETY
Specially designed safety features at the dock and aboard the boats include:
Transfer-boarding benches that assist sailors as they move from wheelchairs to seats aboard.
Counterweighted seats that provide support while enabling sailors to pivot from one side of the boat to the other
Chest and waist belts that add stability and safety
Lines, tillers, and rigging positioned to enable easy participation
Life jackets
Marine radios and outboard engines that allow close contact and maximum safety
Parking conveniently adjacent to the wheelchair-accessible docks
This camp program is a testament to what can be achieved when organizations with a shared commitment to inclusivity come together. The program introduced children to the joys of sailing and provided them with the tools and support needed to overcome physical challenges and embrace new possibilities. The camp has set a strong foundation for future programs, and the CYCF, along with its partners, looks forward to continuing this important work, ensuring that the joys of sailing are accessible to all, regardless of physical ability.
For more information on the Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Program and other inclusive sailing initiatives, visit the Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Foundation website here.