This scholarship means everyone can afford to play on the lake.
Mike McConnell’s love for the lake inspired the scholarship fund in his name to support access to Lake Champlain for anyone in our community regardless of age, ability, race, religion, or economic circumstances.
Scholarship application process
Register for the scholarship application for Youth Programs or Adult Programs. This is a $0 (no cost) offering in our store.
You can then continue shopping and add your chosen camps into your cart through either our store or the website.
Upon checkout, you will be prompted to answer both Camper AND Scholarship related questions.
You will also be required to pay a $100 non-refundable deposit on all camps you are registering for.
We will be in touch in regards to the final amount of scholarship awarded. Once you accept the amount, it will be applied to your account, and we will let you know what your remaining balance might be.
If you have already registered for a camp or program and want to apply for a scholarship, you can register for the scholarship application and complete the process through your account and we will tie it to your order.
Scholarship rules and guidelines
The CSC is only able to provide partial scholarships.
The scholarship fund is limited and awards are given on a first come, first serve basis.
Scholarships must be submitted no later than one week prior to the class start date.
If you have any questions about the scholarship program please email or call our Program Director John Nagle at 802-864-2499
Sailing Diversity Access (SDA) Initiative
2023 will be CSC’s third year of proudly pioneering the initiative to provide campers between 11-15 who identify as BIPOC a 100% fully paid and supported summer camp experience. Through this initiative we aim to create new summer opportunities and recreation options for kids who come from diverse communities and families. This initiative is structured to support up to 40 total camp weeks per year, so be sure to inquire early!
Importantly, this opportunity does not end after this summer! The Community Sailing Center promises to provide full support to participants for up to 4 years for those who decide to continue their growth as sailors. This pathway goes from learning to sail, to racing in high school, to becoming a junior instructor.
Application process:
If you are interested in registering or have any additional questions, mention the “Sailing Diversity Access Scholarship” and feel free to call 802-864-2499 or email info@communitysailingcenter.org.
SDA beneficiaries will be awarded:
Up to four weeks of summer programming completely cost free
Availability for early drop-off (before 9:00 am) and late pick-up (after 4:00 pm)
Up to $30 per week in transportation stipends to support all participants travel to and from our facility
Additional information is available below, just select your language!
The CSC knows that Lake Champlain is one of our area’s greatest resources, but we recognize that both access to sailing and summer camps is a privilege not available to all families. In order to make a lasting change towards providing lake access and life lessons for all, our organization made a long term commitment to ensure that our staff, board and daily participants include different perspectives and voices. This is just one of many opportunities and outreach the CSC is making for the diverse youth and families in our community. If you’d like to hear more about our other efforts, you can read our Commitment to Change.
Why is the Sailing Diversity Access program offered for the following four years?
Sailing is an exciting and transformative sport, but does require practice in order to hone one’s skills. If participants are newer to the sport, we want to set them up for success to continue sailing. The goal is to not only provide individuals an introduction to sailing, but to also to encourage long term diversity in the future of sailing through our upper level courses, performance sailing, and junior instructor programs.
How do I sign up?
Participants must call 802-864-2499 or email info@communitysailingcenter.org to register, as spots are limited and cannot be found on our online registration system.
How can I get the transportation stipend?
The transportation stipend will be dispersed to participants via check, according to the number of weeks that they apply for. The checks are sent after the camp week has finished.
What programs are available as a first year camper?
First time scholarship recipients can take advantage of our Level 1 or Lake Adventure camps. If applicants are unsure of the best fit for their child, our staff is available to discuss the options that suit their needs and interests. Descriptions of the camps are below:
Level 1 class description: Campers will learn the basics of rigging, points of sail, sailing maneuvers, safety and recovery in a safe, fun environment. Certified instructors lead a variety of land- and water-based activities designed to promote comfort and independence in the boat.
Lake Adventure class description: This camp is designed for adventurers who love to play on the lake. We will explore Lake Champlain to the fullest from a variety of watercraft, including canoe/kayak excursions out to Lone Rock Point, paddleboarding to North Beach, and sailing adventures around Burlington Bay.
What programs are available as a second year camper?
Returning Sailors may take one of the Level II sessions, plus they may choose between enrolling in
either Fall Middle School or Fall High School Sailing. If the Fall programs don’t work, returning sailors can enroll in one of the summer Lake Adventure programs. Descriptions of the camps are below:
Level 2 class description: This two-week long camp is a perfect follow up to the Level I camp or an ideal choice for young sailors who are already comfortable with the basics. Following a review of nomenclature and basic rigging, safety, and sailing maneuvers, sailors will advance to on-the-water activities that consolidate existing skills and teach new ones. AgesL 12-16. This is a two-week camp that runs Monday-Friday.
Northern Vermont High School Sailing Team: The Community Sailing Center coaches high school sailors from around the region through the Northern Vermont High School Sailing Team, each season offering young sailors the chance to develop their skills and compete throughout New England. The team is open to any student in good standing attending public, private, or home school in Chittenden and surrounding counties. The Team practices together approximately three days a week after school, with occasional weekend regattas at home or away. Grades 9-12. Fall Session: August 29-October 10.
Middle School Race: Develop the skill to sail our 23' keelboats with a team of other middle school students. Focus on sailing quickly and efficiently on each point of sail. An introduction to the fundamentals of sailboat racing while learning to independently sail keelboats. This program will meet two days a week during after school hours. Grades: 6-8. Fall Session: September 7 – October 10.
Does the program cover Early Drop Off and/or Late Pick Up?
Yes, participants may also apply the scholarship to extended day options.
Community support makes our programs possible, please donate to our scholarship funds today!
oudly pioneering the initiative to provide campers between 11-15 who identify as BIPOC a 100% fully paid and supported summer camp experience. Through this initiative we aim to create new summer opportunities and recreation options for kids who come from diverse communities and families. This initiative is structured to support up to 40 total camp weeks per year, so be sure to inquire early!