CSC – Introducing the Sailing Diversity Access (SDA) Scholarship
Starting in 2021, we are excited to announce this initiative to provide 10 campers between 11-15 who identify as BIPOC a 100% fully paid and supported summer camp experience of up to 4 weeks. Through this initiative we aim to create new summer opportunities and recreation options for kids who come from diverse communities and families.
Importantly, this opportunity does not end after this summer! The Community Sailing Center promises to provide full scholarship support participants over the next 4 years who decide to continue their growth as sailors. This pathway goes from learning to sail, to racing in high school, to becoming a junior instructor.
The Community Sailing Center is a community-based nonprofit organization providing access, education, and recreation on Lake Champlain for almost 8,000 people annually. We engage our community with the lake through a wide range of educational and recreational programs that extend an open invitation to everyone regardless of age, gender, race, physical ability, or the means to pay. You can learn more about our Commitment to Change.
Translated information is available below:
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If you are interested in registering or have any additional questions, mention the “Sailing Diversity Access Scholarship” and feel free to call 802-864-2499 or email info@communitysailingcenter.org.
2021 Program Overview:
Sailing Diversity Access Scholarship is for children ages 11-15 to participate in summer camps during the 2021 season. Our summer camps are designed to teach kids the safety, skill, and joy involved in the life-long sport of sailing. The multi week program will include both sailing-only and multi-activity camps that blend sailing and other fun on-water activities. Camp runs Monday-Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
SDA Scholarship recipients will be awarded:
- Two to four weeks of Level 1 and/or Lake Adventure programming this summer completely cost free
- Availability for early drop-off (before 9:00 am) and late pick-up (after 4:00 pm)
- Up to $120 in transportation stipends to support all participants travel to and from our facility
Level 1 class description: Campers will learn the basics of rigging, points of sail, sailing maneuvers, safety and recovery in a safe, fun environment. Certified instructors lead a variety of land- and water-based activities designed to promote comfort and independence in the boat.
Lake Adventures class description: This camp is designed for adventurers who love to play on the lake. We will explore Lake Champlain to the fullest from a variety of watercraft, including canoe/kayak excursions out to Lone Rock Point, paddle boarding to North Beach, and sailing adventures around Burlington Bay.
| Early Summer: | Late June – Late July | Late July – Late August | August Only |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 21 to June 25, Level 1 | June 28 to July 2, Lake Adventure | July 26 to July 30, Lake Adventure | August 2 to August 6, Level 1 |
| June 28 to July 2, Lake Adventure | July 5 to July 9, Level 1 | August 2 to August 6, Level 1 | August 9 to August 13, Lake Adventure |
| July 5 to July 9, Level 1 | July 12 to July 16, Lake Adventure | August 9 to August 13, Lake Adventure | August 16 to August 20, Level 1 |
| July 12 to July 16, Lake Adventure | July 19 to July 23, Level 1 | August 16 to August 20, Level 1 | August 23 to August 27, Lake Adventure |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Why is the CSC offering this program?
The CSC knows that Lake Champlain is one of our area’s greatest resources, but we recognize that both access to sailing and summer camps is a privilege not available to all families. In order to make a lasting change towards providing lake access and life lessons for all, our organization made a long term commitment to ensure that our staff, board and daily participants include different perspectives and voices. This is just one of many opportunities and outreach the CSC is making for the diverse youth and families in our community. If you’d like to hear more about our other efforts, you can read our Commitment to Change.
Why is the Sailing Diversity Access Scholarship program requiring multiple weeks of camp? Why is the scholarship offered for the following four years?
Sailing is an exciting and transformative sport, but does require practice in order to hone one’s skills. If participants are newer to the sport, we want to set them up for success to continue sailing. The goal is to not only provide individuals an introduction to sailing, but to also to encourage long term diversity in the future of sailing through our upper level courses, performance sailing, and junior instructor programs.
How do I sign up?
Participants must call 802-864-2499 or email info@communitysailingcenter.org to register, as spots are limited and cannot be found on our online registration system. Participants may sign up for up to 4 weeks.
How can I get the transportation stipend?
The transportation stipend will be dispersed to participants via check, according to the number of weeks that they apply for. 4 weeks = $120, 3 weeks = $90, 2 weeks = $60
What camps are available?
Scholarship recipients can take advantage of our Level 1 or Lake Adventure camps. If applicants are unsure of the best fit for their child, our staff is available to discuss the options that suit their needs and interests. Descriptions of the camps are below:
- Level 1 class description: Campers will learn the basics of rigging, points of sail, sailing maneuvers, safety and recovery in a safe, fun environment. Certified instructors lead a variety of land- and water-based activities designed to promote comfort and independence in the boat.
- Lake Adventure class description: This camp is designed for adventurers who love to play on the lake. We will explore Lake Champlain to the fullest from a variety of watercraft, including canoe/kayak excursions out to Lone Rock Point, paddleboarding to North Beach, and sailing adventures around Burlington Bay.
Do I have to sign up for all 4 weeks?
No, you do not need to sign up for all 4 weeks. You can sign up for 1, 2, 3 or 4 – whichever fits you and your campers’ schedule.
Does the scholarship cover Early Drop Off and/or Late Pick Up?
Yes, participants may also apply the scholarship to extended day options.
