Fundraising

Welcome to Columbia Sailing School, where the wind meets the skyline in the heart of downtown Chicago! Nestled on the waterfront, our school extends a warm invitation to sailing enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels, encouraging them to embark on a thrilling journey through the seasons. With an unwavering commitment to safety, enjoyment, and learning, our US Sailing certified staff ensures an unforgettable experience for every student.

As a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Community Sailing Organization, Columbia Sailing School relies on the generosity of donors like you to impact children's lives across the greater Chicago area significantly. Your contributions are pivotal in granting access to our programs and upholding our equipment to the highest safety standards.

Every contribution propels our mission forward, from our annual "Raise the Sail" fundraiser to direct donations from individuals, families, and organizations who share our passion for sailing and marine education. If you wish to support Columbia Sailing School, various avenues are available, including our annual fundraiser and direct donation options. Join us in shaping stewards for our waters and consider donating or including Columbia Sailing School in your estate planning.

Together, let's navigate the future of maritime education and adventure!

Making Waves of Difference

Your support for Columbia Sailing School transcends the water's edge, leaving an enduring impact on the lives of both youth and adults. Each donation invests in a diverse community of students, providing them with the skills, confidence, and sense of stewardship that only sailing can instill. Beyond facilitating learning, your generosity fosters a profound appreciation for our waters, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. Whether empowering a young sailor to navigate their inaugural solo voyage or allowing an adult to discover the joy of sailing, your contribution plays a vital role in shaping a community that cherishes the water and embraces a future filled with maritime possibilities. Join us in making waves of difference for individuals of all ages as together, we navigate towards a brighter, more seafaring future.

Here are some specific ways your contribution can make a difference:

Scholarship Programs: Your donation can support scholarship programs, ensuring that individuals from all walks of life can learn and enjoy the art of sailing.

Equipment Maintenance: Help us keep our fleet in excellent condition by contributing to the maintenance and repair of our boats and equipment. Turnover and maintenance of a fleet are the biggest obstacles sailing schools face and the most important for a safe and fun experience. Please help us ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the water.

Community Outreach: Expand our community outreach efforts to introduce more people, especially youth, to the transformative power of sailing. You can fund outreach events, workshops, field trips, and introductory sailing courses.

Facility Enhancements: Contribute to improving our facilities to create a welcoming and comfortable environment for our sailing community.

Ways to Contribute

Cash Gifts:

Make an immediate impact by contributing through cash gifts. Send your donation directly to Columbia Sailing School at 111 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60601.

Credit Card:

Experience a swift and secure contribution process by using your credit card. Visit our PayPal Giving Fund or call us directly to make a donation with your credit card.

Employer Matching Gifts:

Maximize the effect of your donation by checking if your employer offers a matching gifts program. Reach out to your HR department to explore this option and double your impact.

Donor-Advised Funds:

Empower Columbia Sailing School through your donor-advised fund by recommending a grant directly to us. Specify our address, 111 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60601.

Gifts of Appreciated Stock:

Unlock potential tax benefits by donating appreciated stocks to Columbia Sailing School. Contact us for detailed information on how to seamlessly transfer stocks.

Named Gifts (In Memory/Honor of):

Pay tribute to a loved one's legacy or mark a special occasion with a personalized named gift. Specify the details when making your donation to create a lasting memory.

In-Kind Donations:

Explore unique opportunities to contribute goods or services through in-kind donations. Connect with us to discuss how your in-kind donation can uniquely support our programs.

Endowment Funds:

Contribute to the enduring sustainability of Columbia Sailing School by supporting our endowment funds. Get in touch for details on how to establish or contribute to an endowment.

Planned Giving:

Shape a lasting legacy through planned giving options, including bequests, charitable trusts, or annuities. Consult with your financial advisor to explore these thoughtful and impactful giving avenues.

Scholarship Fund:

Invest in the future of aspiring sailors by championing our Scholarship Fund. Your contribution makes sailing education accessible to all. Specify your donation's purpose when contributing to directly impact the next generation of sailors.

For further inquiries or assistance, please get in touch with us at the provided address. Columbia Sailing School is a registered 501(c)3 organization; our tax ID is 47-3706487. Your support is crucial in shaping stewards for our waters and ensuring the success of our programs. Thank you for being a part of our sailing community!