Our Mission

Offering a unique, safe and comprehensive water-based educational and recreational program, the Spirit of America Foundation instills confidence and fosters the Spirit of teamwork in our nation’s youth. Our underlying goals also include developing self-esteem while nurturing responsible behavior and positive, lifelong ambitions.

These guiding statements reflect the heart of our youth boating initiative and the values that shape every program we offer. “Teaching the way our children learn” speaks to our commitment to hands‑on, experiential instruction that meets young people where they are and helps them grow with confidence. “No Child Left at the Dock” reinforces our belief in inclusion, access, and opportunity for every student, ensuring that all youth, regardless of background or ability, can experience the joy, safety, and empowerment that come from learning on the water. Together, these principles define who we are and the impact we strive to make in every community we serve.

Our History

Founded in 1995, Spirit of America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public service organization dedicated to providing America’s premier youth boating education programs. For more than 30 years, we have introduced young people, their families, and their communities to safe, enjoyable water‑based recreation through one of the most diverse hands‑on programs in the country.

Our commitment to safety, education, and community engagement has shaped thousands of confident, capable young boaters nationwide.

Spirit of America 1995 Inaugural Class

Our Vision

Spirit of America is committed to being an essential part of every community we serve. We lead the advancement of national standards‑based boating education across all disciplines, including:

  • State boating education courses
  • Drowning prevention & equipment awareness
  • Canoeing, kayaking, rowing, and stand‑up paddleboarding
  • Sailing
  • Powered watercraft operation
  • Safety equipment and emergency preparedness

Our programs are offered at little to no cost to students, ensuring equitable access to high‑quality on‑water learning.

We provide communities with a sustainable resource for education and recreation, inspiring lifelong stewardship of our natural environment. By offering learning opportunities during both in‑school and out‑of‑school hours, we support social development, life skills, and personal growth in a nontraditional, experiential setting.

We empower youth through a curriculum grounded in national on‑water skills‑based and knowledge‑based standards. With the support of exceptional instructors and partner organizations, we help students develop lifelong learning habits. Our graduates are “paying it forward” by becoming safer, smarter boaters who will contribute to a thriving marine industry.

Future Boaters … Future Business.

Get on Board

We invite you to support our mission – whether by contributing to our programs or joining us on the water as part of our instructional team.

Contact Us
Students on kayaks with life vests on
Student boater with life vest on and outboard motor

Our Team

Delivering Spirit of America programs nationwide takes a dedicated, passionate, and fun‑loving team. Our national staff works closely with local host agencies and partner organizations to bring high‑quality boating education to communities across the country.
In each location, we are honored to work with some of the finest instructors in the nation. These individuals generously share their time, expertise, and commitment to shaping the future of water‑based recreation through education.

Become an Instructor

Every Spirit of America location relies on skilled instructors to deliver our curriculum. If you’re interested in joining us, please visit our Locations page or contact our Executive Office for more information.
Our instructors come from diverse communities and national organizations, bringing unique strengths that enrich each local program.