About Us
Our Mission
Courageous Sailing transforms lives through sailing programs that inspire learning, personal growth and leadership.
Our Vision
Courageous Sailing is a community that embraces sailing as a platform for life-long learning, personal growth and leadership; a center of sailing excellence committed to removing barriers to access for all Boston youth, the public and people with physical and intellectual challenges.
History
Courageous Sailing was established in 1987 as a 501(c)(3) by the late South Boston sailing enthusiast Harry McDonough. It was Harry’s dream to use sailing to build character and camaraderie among Boston children from all economic and ethnic backgrounds. For 25 years, we have continued to grow and deliver our mission to transform children’s lives through sailing programs that inspire learning, personal growth and leadership. In Harry’s words, “Every child's perspective is improved 50-yards off-shore.”
Courageous is now a nationally recognized year-round educational center for community sailing and youth development. Courageous offers Boston-area youth free and low-cost out-of-school-time programs in sailing, environmental education, job skills development, and leadership training. In 2011 we were honored to be named one of the top 10 community sailing programs nationwide by both US Sailing and Sail Magazine.
How Courageous Got Its Name
The America's Cup 12 meter "Courageous" once lived at Pier 4 in the Navy Yard. This two-time America's Cup winner lent its name to Courageous Sailing in the late 1980s. The boat now resides at the Museum of Yachting in Newport, Rhode Island, where it has been restored and is still being raced.
Employment Opportunities
Join a team of nearly 100 seasonal instructors, administrators, and coaches, all dedicated to delivering affordable, high quality sailing programs to thousands of Boston-area community members each year. Visit our website to view our most up to date job postings and to find the right opportunity for you. We look forward to hearing from you!