YSF receives grant from US Power Squadrons Educational Fund
Friday, February 7, 2020
This past Monday United States Power Squadrons Educational Fund Trustee Nigel Hargreaves visited YSF to present a check for $7,500 in recognition and support of our afterschool squadron program. The grant, the first ever made by US Power Squadrons to a non-member organization, will fund one of four Fall 2020 squadrons. The waterfront ceremony (on a picture perfect Florida afternoon) was attended by members of the local Vero Beach Power Squadron and YSF volunteers.
During the award presentation, members of the Beachland Shark Squadron were actively rigging and launching off the beach under the supervision of YSF Assistant Sailing Director Kym Helwig. These 4th and 5th grade sailors received a personal introduction to Mr. Hargreaves and expressed their thanks to him and the Educational Fund.
USPS, known to many as America’s Boating Club®, has over 24,000 members organized into more than 350 local squadrons across the country. Founded in 1914, the non-profit organization is dedicated to boating safety and education. The local Vero Beach Power Squadron was an integral partner in YSF's founding 11 years ago, and many Power Squadron members serve as safety volunteers, supervising YSF's fleet of young sailors and keeping them safe out on the lagoon.
YSF was among organizations from all over the country vying for 10 or 12 grants awarded annually by USPS Educational Fund. To be honored in this was recognizes the educational value inherent in YSF's programs, which seek to instill character, confidence, and valuable life skills in local children regardless of means, background or circumstances.
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit offering free sailing instruction to the children of Indian River County, YSF is entirely dependent on grants and individual donations from the local community. This spring 175 sailors are enrolled in YSF programs, ranging from novice instruction to competitive scholastic sailing. The afterschool squadrons are drawn from several local public schools and represent all segments of the community, including many underserved families.
Thanks to YSF volunteer Wyatt Hyora for attending and providing photos!
