OUR IMPACT
PROGRAM IMPACT
More Than Learning to Sail
Founded in 2024, the Kohala Sailing Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit creating opportunities for Hawaiʻi Island youth to learn, grow, and connect with the ocean through our free keiki sailing program.
Aboard Pua, keiki ages 11–17 experience sailing in a way that simply can’t be taught in a classroom. They learn to read the wind, navigate, tie knots, handle sailing equipment, understand changing ocean conditions, and work together as a crew. Along the way, they also explore marine science and gain a deeper understanding of the ocean environment surrounding Hawaiʻi Island.
But the impact extends far beyond sailing skills. Every experience on the water creates opportunities to practice teamwork, communication, leadership, problem-solving, resilience, and responsibility. Keiki are encouraged to try new things, trust themselves and one another, and build confidence through hands-on experiences and real responsibilities aboard the boat.
Our program also helps strengthen the connection between Hawaiʻi Island youth and the ocean that surrounds their home. By creating positive experiences on the water and introducing keiki to Hawaiʻi’s maritime traditions and marine environment, we hope to inspire a lifelong sense of curiosity, respect, and kuleana for the ocean.
Most importantly, these experiences are provided at no cost to participating keiki and their families. Through the Kohala Sailing Foundation, we’re working to make sailing and ocean education more accessible while helping raise the next generation of confident young people, ocean stewards, and community leaders on Hawaiʻi Island.
NATURE OF ACTIVITIES
Educational Enrichment: Providing opportunities for youth to learn and develop sailing skills, promoting leadership, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Safety and Seamanship: Emphasizing the importance of boating safety, seamanship skills, and respect for the water to ensure a positive and safe sailing experience for participants.
Skill Development: Equipping youth with practical sailing skills, including boat handling, navigation, safety procedures, and racing techniques, to promote personal growth and confidence.
Career Exploration: Introducing youth to potential career pathways in the maritime industry, such as sailing instructors, marine biologists, boat captains, or marine engineers.
Character Building: Teaching values such as responsibility, perseverance, discipline, respect for nature, and teamwork through the challenges and rewards of sailing.
Environmental Awareness and Conservation: Instilling a sense of environmental stewardship by teaching youth about marine ecosystems, water conservation, and the importance of preserving aquatic environments.
Promotion of Physical and Mental Wellness: Offering a healthy and active recreational outlet for youth, helping to improve physical fitness, coordination, and mental well-being.
Community Engagement: Fostering a sense of community and belonging among youth participants, volunteers, and families who share an interest in sailing and maritime activities.
Diversity and Inclusion: Creating an inclusive and diverse environment that welcomes participants from all backgrounds, regardless of socio-economic status, race, gender, or abilities.
Community Outreach: Engaging with local schools, youth organizations, and other community partners to expand access to sailing education and promote the benefits of aquatic activities for youth development.
