Empowering Girls and Women through the Sport of Sailing
The Community Sailing Center’s Women in Wind program offers unique experiences to girls and women through on-water sports, recreation, and science. Sailing is not just a sport; it is a life-changing experience that can build self-confidence, leadership skills, and strength. Through the Women in Wind program, young girls and women become stronger, more determined, and capable while applying these qualities to other areas of their lives. They will also learn more about the natural world surrounding lake ecosystems, giving them a window into a world in which they can be, and are for a day, a scientist.
Working with confident female instructors, girls and women are empowered and supported in an accepting atmosphere, while learning from a positive role model. Trying new activities and challenges in a space free of male influences has proven to be beneficial for the development of adolescent girls. Being outside, on the water, instills a sense of freedom and a break from the challenges and hardships of everyday life. Confidence, self-esteem, positive body images and new friends are some of the many outcomes of the Women in Wind program.
The Goals of the Women in Wind Program are to:
- Empower women to develop self-confidence and a strong sense of self.
- Expand opportunities for women to recreate and connect with Lake Champlain.
- Create a supportive environment for women that models healthy lifestyle choices while promoting a positive body image.
- Breakdown gender stereotypes and inspire young girls and women to pursue new challenges and discover new interests.
- Foster a sense of female community and friendship through group activities and team-building challenges.
- Generate an interest in the sport of sailing and paddling, skills that can last a lifetime.
- Inspire girls to explore their curiosity in the subjects of science and ecology.
In 2011 we reached 30 young girls and women through this program, we look forward to working with more girls and women in the future.
Previous partners include: Vermont Works for Women (Rosie’s Girls Camp), Young Women’s Christian Association, Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains, and the Burlington High School Girls Outdoor Club.
2012 Program Dates:
Summer Session: June 18 – August 24
Fall Session: August 25 – October 12
Contact: For more information about the Women in Wind program or to receive an application please contact Education Director, Jen Guimaraes at 802-864-2499 or jen@communitysailingcenter.org
