VetsBoats Foundation

Our vision for 2025 is simple. We see a nation where all veterans thrive, supported by a healing community forged through the transformative power of the sea. Working with the VA, we are realizing this vision by offering a diverse set of programs: ? Sailing Skills: Veterans learn essential sailing techniques and maritime safety and teamwork by participating in a variety of on the water events. ? Boat Restoration: not just sanding and varnishing, veterans engage in the art of restoring historic wooden boats, providing a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Click below to learn more about how you can help. https://lnkd.in/gYiki_Fy

Join us for the fun, March 15th at the Sausalito Yacht Club. We’re throwing a St. Patrick’s Day party in support of CLOVER, our restoration project that benefits our Veterans. Get your tickets at the link below: https://lnkd.in/g-D5Em3v

Even though the weather’s been challenging lately, work still continues on Clover. Check out the new stainless steel floors for the bow taking shape. Nine new floors and 200 new fasteners are going to replace the original material, strengthening Clover for her offshore sailing ahead. ??

Clover's Pot O' Gold Party! Come join the friends of Clover St. Patty's weekend for dinner, dancing and live traditional Irish music! Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of Irish culture and community impact! Grab your friends, wear your favorite green outfit, and join us for a night to remember. Sat, March 15, 5:00 at the Sausalito Yacht Click below now for your tickets!

At VetsBoats, we're embracing the Japanese concept of kaizen, focusing on small, continuous improvements as we work on Clover, tackling one section at a time. This approach keeps us motivated and allows us to see progress every day, no matter how minor. Perhaps as important, we're also embracing the concept of wabi-sabi, finding beauty in Clover's imperfections and honoring her journey rather than striving for unattainable perfection. Each weathered patch and worn surface tells a story, and we're here to preserve and celebrate that history. Join us in our mission to restore hope for veterans, one brushstroke at a time. Together, we're not just refurbishing boats; we're crafting stories of resilience and renewal, embracing the imperfections that make each of us unique. Click to find out how you can be part of Clover's Restoration.

For a Limited Time 10% off all Merch! Start the year off right. For the month of January, we’re offering 10% off all VetsBoats merch! Show your support for our veteran sailing programs by sporting our exclusive merchandise. From nautical-themed apparel to commemorative items, our swag celebrates the spirit of veterans and maritime adventure. Whether you’re a supporter, veteran, or sailing enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss our January Swag SALE! Visit our online store and use promo code VETSBOATS10 to claim your discount. Help us continue supporting veterans through our wooden boat restoration and sailing programs.

VetsBoats Needs a Truck! We’re reaching out with an important need for our veteran support mission. Our organization is seeking a truck donation to help transport veterans and equipment for Clover and our therapeutic sailing programs. A reliable truck would be transformative for VetsBoats. If you have a truck you’re willing to donate or sell at a significantly reduced price, you’d be directly supporting veterans’ healing and community-building. If you can help us please reach out to our team at [email protected]. Fair winds and following seas, The VetsBoats Team

End of Year Message from VetsBoats Because of you, 2024 has been a transformative year for our veteran community. We've made significant strides in our mission to enrich veterans' lives through sailing and boat restoration projects. Record-Breaking Impact This year, we introduced over 500 veterans to sailing, surpassing our previous records. Our flagship vessel, the Clover, completed engine trials and is hauled out for the winter, and played a crucial role in providing unforgettable experiences for our veterans. Memorable Experiences- Aboard the brigantine Matthew Turner, operated by Call of the Sea Foundation, 235 veterans from all branches of the military participated; manning the main staysail station, raising the foresails, and taking the helm. Aboard the ketch Derek Baylis, 210 veterans sailed as far as to the Farallon Islands to witness to beauty of marine life offshore. Veterans also participated on sailing outings on a network of privately operated boats. Healing Through Sailing For many veterans, these experiences have been life-changing: "The hands-on training on the boat — I no longer feel useless," shared Lindsay Remer, a medically retired explosive ordnance-disposal technician. Community Building Our long-term strategy focuses on: - Building community in the Bay and Delta regions - Wooden boat restoration projects - A wider array of curated sailing experiences to appeal to a wider group of veterans Looking Ahead to 2025 As we approach the end of 2024, we're planning for even greater impact in the coming year. We aim to: - Double our reach to 1,000 veterans in need - Enhance our educational programs - Begin sea trials for Clover, our 1938 68-ft gaff-rigged sloop restoration project Your Support Matters - Double Your Impact There are just a few days left to reach our year-end fundraising goal. Now through the end of the year, your contribution will be matched 100% and will ensure that more veterans can connect with the ocean and find healing through our programs. Click below to give to VetsBoats today to help us continue our mission of serving those who have served us.

Merry Christmas from VetsBoats We wanted to wish all of you a very happy holiday season. As we celebrate the holiday season, we are deeply grateful for friends like you. Thank you for helping Veterans, Active Duty military, and their families. May you and your loved ones have a joy-filled holiday and a happy, healthy New Year! This holiday season, if you are concerned about a veteran, connect with a Veterans Crisis Line responder anytime day or night. Dial 988 then Press 1 Start a confidential chat Text 838255 For TTY: Dial 711 then 988 You're not alone—and you don't have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to call.

Yesterday marked an exciting moment in Clover’s restoration journey. She was successfully hauled out and traveled under her own engine from Sugar Dock to Svendsen’s Bay Marine boat yard. This significant milestone brings us closer to our goal of fully restoring this historic vessel. While at the yard, we will: ?Repair internal structure ?Work on bow floors ?Address hull planking ?Apply new bottom paint ?Prepare for topside painting Clover is transforming, and this progress is only possible because of your incredible support. Your time, talent, and financial contributions have made this restoration a reality. We are grateful and excited about the upcoming year, anticipating Clover’s return to active service supporting veterans. Thank you for being part of our journey!