Volunteering

Want to Volunteer?

At Sailors with disABILITIES, we need a lot of volunteers to keep us going. Even if you don't sail, there is a lot you can do to help us in the work that we do.

How can you help?

		Everything you need to know about joining is here.
		If you want to try sailing out.
		If you are a school looking for a sailing day.
		Help us on our trip up the coast.

		to find out more about us.
		to see how you can get involved.

"This Sunday I had the great pleasure of joining the SWD crew for a try sail day. I must admit that many of the kids from the sibling support group had more nautical experience than I did, so in reality it was more of a try sail day for me. Despite my lack of experience everyone was very welcoming and made me feel like part of the team from the outset.

My greatest concern, prior to the day, was that I would be struck down by sea - sickness but fortunately the weather was perfect for a jaunt around the world’s most famous harbor. Having volunteered to help SWD, imagine how embarrassing it would have been if the kids and crew ended up having to take care of me!

As the only fully “abled” member of crew I felt pretty self conscious of my sailing inabilities. Every one of the experienced crew members whether hearing impaired or having “wobbly legs” (the actual medical term), was more agile on the yacht than I was and they certainly put the ability into disability!

After about an hour on board, I really began to understand and appreciate the great work of SWD and I felt that it was a great opportunity for me to be part of something special. I have spent many Sundays, relaxing on the beach or pottering around the apartment and it was tremendous to be out sailing around the harbour in the fresh air and actually helping people in the process. Every child fully participated in the sailing, each taking turns to steer and their enjoyment was clear to see. The crew were very open and educational and tried to impart as much of their extensive sailing knowledge to the kids as possible. It was so enjoyable watching the kids discover a new passion for something that in a way I was almost envious and am now even more keen to learn more and in turn, one day, pass that knowledge on.

Sailing around the harbour on a beautiful, sunny Sunday morning would make anyone feel like their troubles were a million miles away. That’s the main reason that I really admire what SWD do. All of the children were really happy and excited to be there and I'm sure the morning served as a fantastic distraction and break from their usual daily routines. The crew are all really enthusiastic and positive, although they do admit that sailing on a Sunday is much more enjoyable than washing the car and mowing the lawn , so perhaps they aren't as altruistic as they may appear at first glance!

I managed to pick up a little bit of sailing lingo, and now know the meaning of tacking and what a jib is. I also learnt how to coil a rope and assisted in folding the sail. While that may not sound too glamorous it was my absolute pleasure to help the guys following my leisurely morning cruise and being able to enjoy the company of the children .