Spirit of America is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing America’s Premier Youth Boating Education Programs. Since 1995, the organization has delivered hands‑on, standards‑based boating and water‑safety education to young people across the country.

Most traditional Spirit of America programs serve youth ages 9–15, though some special programs such as drowning‑prevention initiatives and caregiver programs serve a wider age range, from toddlers to seniors.

Spirit of America’s curriculum meets and exceeds the National On‑Water Skills‑Based (NOWS) and Knowledge‑Based Standards, the National Instructor Approach Standard, and multiple national education standards. Instruction includes sailing, human‑powered craft, and powerboating, all taught through hands‑on, experiential learning.

Programs are offered at multiple national locations, with new communities added as partnerships grow. Some programs, like the Passport Program, allow students to complete curriculum components while traveling.

Safety is the foundation of every Spirit of America program. Students learn essential water‑safety, boating‑safety, and drowning‑prevention skills, and all instruction is delivered by trained, certified professionals following national standards.

Our programs are designed to teach children from a variety of backgrounds/abilities and can be modified to each child’s individual learning needs. “We teach the way our children learn.”

This guiding philosophy reflects Spirit of America’s commitment to inclusion. Programs are designed to ensure that young people of all abilities, backgrounds, and learning styles can participate safely and confidently.

Yes. All of our programs including ‘Compasses and Companionways’ offer unique, adaptive versions of the curriculum, modified by professionals to meet the needs of students with learning or physical challenges.

Yes. Spirit of America offers programs for adults. These accelerated courses build boating competence and confidence so caregivers can safely introduce youth to the water.

This annual, Congressionally‑recognized event takes place during the week surrounding the Fourth of July. Families and individuals are encouraged to take a young person boating, share a safety message, and submit a photo or short video for a chance to win prizes.

Hosted by the Spirit of America Foundation, the ‘National Youth Boating Hall of Fame’ honors exceptional graduates ages 12-24 who demonstrate outstanding achievement in boating disciplines and water‑safety education. Inductees receive permanent recognition for their contributions.

Programs are supported through grants, including funding in part from the Sport Fish Restoration & Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard, as well as private donations, partnerships, and community support. Our sponsors are also an integral part of our funding.

You can support Spirit of America by donating, volunteering, sponsoring a program, or helping bring a new program to your community. Every contribution helps expand access to life‑saving boating and water‑safety education.

You can reach the organization at Director@SpiritofAmerica95.org or by phone at 1‑440‑209‑1995. A contact form is also available on the website.

You can reach the organization at Director@SpiritofAmerica95.org or by phone at 1‑440‑209‑1995. A contact form is also available on the website.

Visit our locations page to find a program in your area or contact us for more information about volunteering.

We welcome graduates back after their successful completion of the program to act as Jr. Volunteers. After age 18, they may also become instructors, instructor trainers and coordinators.