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Heart of Sailing teaches sailing to special needs children as a form of recreational therapy. The charity was founded in 2004 by George Saidah, a successful software entrepreneur who was motivated by his personal experience with a loved one with a cognitive disorder. A sailor for more than 35 years, Saidah dreamed of combining his love of the ocean with service to the community. Since retiring in 2005, Saidah devotes his time to developing Heart of Sailing to create a fun, educational and therapeutic opportunity for children with developmental disabilities.
Although alternative forms of therapy such as art and music therapy, as well as horseback riding, have become widely accepted in the last few years, sailing is a unique environment for participants. Sailing encourages abstract thought and teamwork, develops problem-solving skills and ultimately helps one learn patience and self-respect. The experience of sailing is not limited to the physical, although for many participants, it is their first opportunity to enjoy the unique sensations associated with sailing: the feel of the wind, the movement of the waves, the sounds as the boat moves through the water, all of which are stimulating and exhilarating.
Heart of Sailing operates its Daysail Program in more than 10 locations worldwide. Daysails incorporate therapeutic principles, as described in the Sailing Therapy Benefits form. Depending upon location (i.e. inland lake or ocean), the Daysail commences at 9:30 a.m. Participants typically range in age from 8-18 (although exceptions are made), and must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Participants are fitted with U.S. Coast Guard approved lifejackets and board the sailboats for their introductory lessons on boating safety and sailing. Upon departing the dock, the children learn more about the parts and function of a sailboat and are encouraged to participate as crewmembers. While aboard, the children have the opportunity (based upon their abilities) to help hoist and trim the sails, learning the basics of how wind propels the sailboat. Each child has the opportunity to take the helm and pilot the boat, which provides them with a greater understanding of the principles of sailing and basic navigation. Lunch is served picnic-style on the boat, and gives participants and important opportunity for social interaction. Daysails conclude with each child receiving a medal and commemorative certificate, along with photo opportunities, in recognition of their service as crewmembers.
Program Director, Amber Burton Small, who has a background in cognitive development, helps manage the Daysail Program in order to monitor and improve its services. Small and Saidah have both been pleased with the response, and are seeing children who are repeat sailors enrolling in multiple Daysails (which enables Small to study both the short-term and long-term benefits of the program). While sailing is relaxing and enjoyable, by focusing on incorporating all aspects of the experience - motor-skills, socialization, abstract thought, sensory stimulation, and confidence building, Heart of Sailing is able to maximize the therapeutic benefits of this form of recreation.
With its humble start in Indiana as a grass-roots organization, Heart of Sailing has received its 501(c)(3) designation and is a not-for-profit foundation. From inception, it has relied upon the generosity of volunteers, donors, and sponsors as Heart of Sailing does not charge a fee for the child participating in the Daysail program. Heart of Sailing has no paid staff members, with Saidah and Small volunteering their time to run the organization. Grants and fundraising activities also help fund the Daysail program and maintain Heart of Sailing’s fleet of boats.
Saidah is proud of what the foundation has accomplished in a short time, but he continues to dream big. A dreamer and doer, he doesn’t take no for an answer. As he states, “My projected goals are to reach 120,000 children in five years through the establishment of regional programs.” With Saidah’s persistence and dedication, Heart of Sailing is in the capable hands of an adventurer, a sailor committed to bringing joy to deserving children.
For more information about Heart of Sailing or to learn how you can help, please visit www.heartofsailing.org.
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