Sailing Toward a Brighter Future: The Partnership Between CYCF and SOS Children's Villages Illinois
June 25, 2024
by Danyell Shin
For the third consecutive year, the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation and SOS Children's Villages in Chicago have forged a transformative partnership. This collaboration is not just about sailing, but about equipping at-risk youth with the tools and support they need to navigate towards brighter and more stable futures, a mission that fills us with hope and sets us apart.
SOS Children's Villages in Chicago offers a stable and nurturing environment for children who have lost parental care or are at risk of losing it. Their holistic approach includes educational support, mental health services, skill development programs, and fostering resilience and independence.
The Chicago Yacht Club Foundation's mission, promoting the joys and benefits of boating to all and focusing on youth from underrepresented communities, complements SOS's mission perfectly. Foundation programs build confidence, resilience, and a sense of community, providing a positive and enriching environment.
The Foundation's first Adventure Boating Camp with SOS was in the summer of 2022. 2024 marks our third year of collaboration. This summer, we welcome 10 new kids to the Adventure Boating Camp. Last summer, we had 12 participants from SOS, many of whom also participated in CYCF-funded swim school.
The Foundation groups its programs into four levels, including Introduction, providing first-time experiences on and off the water; Induction, multi-day programs for youth interested in learning more; Development, fostering skill advancement; and Inspiration, supporting sail racing at the highest level. Adventure Boating falls into the Induction group. Notably, seven returning kids are advancing to the Development level, which provides more skilled classes, such as sailing 420s and Level 1 courses. One remarkable female sailor participates in both the 420s, and our Lead HER Ship program, which takes young women on a five-day sailing adventure across Lake Michigan. These success stories are a testament to the transformative power of our partnership.
Through this partnership, SOS Children's Villages youth sailors are not just learning valuable life skills, but also experiencing the sheer joy and freedom of the lakefront, a sight that inspires and motivates us all.
"We had families asking for swimming for years; CYCF made it happen. We had been looking for partners to help us provide engaging after-school programs; CYCF brought us fun and creative STEAM activities. It is not just about what is offered, but how it is offered. CYCF’s team time and time again works to make our kids feel like they deserve to be there. Ms. Francesca always make our kids feel cared for and special. We could not be more grateful for this partnership," said Emily Brown.
Looking ahead to 2025, the partnership between the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation and SOS Children's Villages is a beacon of hope. Our shared vision is not just about teaching children to sail, but about empowering them to chart their own course towards a successful and fulfilling future. This is a journey we're deeply committed to, and our dedication is a testament to the trust we place in the potential of these young individuals.