The Black Yacht Foundation is officially launching its first year of community programs, and we’re inviting you to be part of building a safer, stronger, and more empowered future on the water.

Our mission is to expand water safety education, swimming access, CPR training, captain certification opportunities, and maritime career pathways for Black communities across Chicago and beyond. Your support directly fuels programs that save lives, open doors, and create long-term impact.

Why We Need Your Support

Black communities disproportionately lack access to swim lessons, safety resources, and maritime career opportunities. We’re changing that — but we need the community behind us.

Your donation will help us:

Provide free and low-cost swim & water safety classes
Offer community CPR & First Aid certification
Sponsor five participants each year to become licensed boat captains
Build a digital water safety resource center
Launch maritime leadership and career programs
Host community education events, workshops, and the Anchors of Excellence Gala

Every contribution helps us grow these programs and reach more families, youth, and aspiring maritime professionals.

❤️ Our First-Year Fundraising Goal: $10,000

This goal allows us to launch all core initiatives and begin our first cohort of scholarship recipients and program participants.

Here’s what your support can do:

$25 — Provides swim materials for a child or adult learner
$50 — Supports CPR certification supplies
$100 — Covers a full CPR/AED certification for one participant
$250 — Supports a family water safety workshop
$500 — Funds training equipment and instructor time
$1,000 — Contributes directly to our Captain Scholarship Fund
$5,000 — Sponsors a full captain certification for one future leader

All donations are tax-deductible and directly support program delivery, safety supplies, instructors, scholarships, and community outreach.

⚓ Join Us in Making History

This is more than a donation — it’s an investment in safety, access, and representation on the water. Together, we can build a legacy that empowers generations to come.

Donate today and help us reach our $10,000 goal.

Water Safe Campaign