Looking out on the lake watching a Martin 16 glide through the
waters on a sunny, breezy summer day, one does not think of all the work
and the people behind this beautiful sight. Allowing the disabled members
of AQVA to enjoy the pleasures of sailing takes a lot more than first meets
the eye. AQVA is composed of a large number of people who contribute in
many ways to make it happen. From the highly qualified staff that takes
care of day-to-day operations of the sailing program during the season,
to the many volunteers who perform countless tasks all year round, to sponsors
and benefactors who help cover the costs, AQVA is a true community of devoted
individuals who together make this organization a success.
Members of the AQVA community can be categorized two ways:
1) According to the level of their participation and
involvement in the Association:
Sailors
The raison d’être of the association, these are individuals
with physical or sensory disabilities for whom sailing would be very difficult,
if not impossible. They may also belong to other categories as described
below.
Volunteers
These people are the heart of the association. They are involved in numerous
ways, including: assisting sailors on the docks and transferring them into
the boats; acting as sailing partners; evaluating new sailors; ensuring
storage and upkeep of the boats; and transporting the boats to regattas
at other clubs. They also organize local regattas, social events, and fundraisers.
Volunteers ensure the administration of their regional chapter and some
are sailors themselves.
Staff
The Association is a community-based organization relying on enthusiastic
and dependable volunteers, but unfortunately this is not enough to serve
the sailing members. Sailing instructors and other salaried staff are necessary
to keep the programmes running during the sailing season.
Supporters
These are people who believe in the Association’s goals. They participate
in social events and fundraisers, distribute information on the Association,
and help recruit sailors and volunteers. They support the Association financially.
2) According to membership categories as set forth
in the Association regulations and by-laws: (Under review)
Active Members
Comprising sailors, volunteers and supporters, Active Members support Association
goals and participate in its activities. They have the right to vote at
the Annual General Meeting. They pay annual dues, which are set by the Board
of Directors.
Volunteer Members
Includes individuals, associations, or corporate entities that espouse the
goals and activities of the Association. Volunteer Members can be technical
assistants, therapists or any other person who helps Active Members participate
in the Association. Volunteer Members may participate in all Association
activities.
Honorary Members
Individuals interested in the goals and activities of the Association and
who make a contribution of $100 or more. This includes the fees and privileges
of an Active Member and a tax receipt for charitable donations.
Corporate Members
Corporate entities offering a donation of $500 or more. They may receive
a tax receipt for a charitable donation.
Let’s make it happen!
