The Stamford Sailing Foundation Mission
To create a world-class educational program built around sailing and the sea, uniquely designed to influence the growth of the economically challenged children of Stamford, Connecticut, into responsible citizens who care for themselves and all living things.
To teach boating-related activites—such as swimming, water safety, teamwork, meteorology, navigation, marine biology, and respect for the natural resources of Long Island Sound— with the goal of expanding their personal horizons and career goals.
To build the curiosity, intellectual skills and motivation to help them achieve academic and lifelong success.
To accurately and timely measure and report results to ensure that donations are well-spent and that all participants—founders, partners, donors, staff, and the youth of Stamford— are proud of their support and association with the organization.
The History of Stamford Sailing Foundation
Early 1990’s
Cliff and Karen Angers, in memory of their son Rusty, who died at a tragically young age, decided to give sailing scholarships at local yacht clubs to children from lower income households.
1997
The Stamford Sailing Foundation is launched by founders Cliff Angers and Skip Raymond and others from the local sailing community.
1997–2004
SSF grows to include after-school classes in selected Stamford public schools in swimming- and sailing-related topics like navigation, small boat safety, marine ecology, and more.
November 2005
City of Stamford leases SSF waterfront land at Southfield Park to build facilities for a world class educational program based on sailing and the sea.
2006
SSF’s first Blue Water Bound (BWB) program at the facility.
2007
SSF expands the after school program. BWB Summer Program enrolls 36 and adds a fifth week.
2008
The opening of SSF’s home marina and on-water teaching facilities at Southfield Park.