LeaderSHIP Program

The Community Sailing Center's LeaderSHIP program gives back to the community by to offer sailing enrichment opportunities to non-profit groups and agencies in the Burlington community without cost, thanks to our generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers.

photoThe CSC strives to break down all racial and socioeconomic barriers to sailing through our LeaderSHIP program. There are many children who live less than a mile away from Lake Champlain but have never had the opportunity to access any educational or recreational activity.

Goals of the LeaderSHIP program include building confidence and self-esteem through the sport of sailing.

Sailing requires agility, skill, teamwork, and concentration and through games, races and exercises we will enhance specific skills including individual and team working skills.

Through lectures and on-the-water practice, students will learn the basics of sailing, rigging, safety, docking, right of way rules, wind conditions and knot tying.

Whether its a few hours of recreational sailing, or a half-day of land-based and on-the-water instruction, the CSC believes sailing teaches valuable life lessons. It is our goal to make that gift truly accessible.

To find out whether your group qualifies for the LeaderSHIP program or for information about volunteering for this project, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , Executive Director

This is a very popular program at the CSC. Unfortunately, limited funding does require us to cap the number of annual participants. We urge you to inquire early in the season about community sailing opportunities.

In 2007, we were able to offer the LeaderSHIP program to over 125 children.

2007 Participants in the Leadership Program:

  • Dream Program
  • Barnes World Academy
  • King Street Youth Center
  • Spectrum Youth and Family Services
  • Boys and Girls Club of Burlington

2007 Program Sponsors:

  • The Vermont CFA Society
  • Chittenden Bank