Our Funding Needs
Capital Expenditures
In the past we have received donations from organizations and corporations
such as Ronald Macdonald Children’s Charities, Westmount Rotary Club,
Royal Bank, etc. with which we were able to purchase our boats. These boats
were designed specifically for sailors with disabilities. Our three Martin
16’s were acquired in 1996, 1998 and 2002. The two older boats, although
well maintained, would benefit from a professional refurbishing. Funding
for a fourth boat would also be greatly appreciated. Our Access Dinghy which
is used by the children in our program, would be even more fun if “twinned”
with a second boat. New sails and a new hoist for transferring sailors in
and out of the boats complete our “wish list”.
The estimated need for these capital expenditures ranges from $1,200 for
a new set of sails to $45,000 for fulfilling all of our wish list.
However, our greatest need is for funds to cover our operating
expenses.
Operating Expenses
Our staff is comprised of one manager, two sailing instructors
and a booking coordinator. Funding for the instructors and coordinator is
provided through the federal government’s “Summer Career Placements”
program for an eight-week period. We are therefore obliged to limit the length
of our season. The position of manager was created three years ago as the
program had grown to the point where volunteers from the executive committee
could no longer commit sufficient time. There is no government funding available
for this person’s salary.In addition to the manager’s salary our
costs include insurance, dock fees, equipment maintenance and renewal, office
supplies, telephone and accounting fees. We would also like to have sufficient
funds to allow us to cover the instructor and booking coordinator’s
salaries for an additional 4-6 weeks to prolong our sailing season. The total
of these costs is approximately $20,000.We would also like to create a fund
to assist sailors that cannot afford our minimal costs, that need funding
for intensive training and/or to participate in out of town regattas. The
cost for any sponsored sailor, depending on the program, will vary from $200
to $1200 each.
Your support will help us continue to improve
the quality of life of children and adults with physical disabilities!
