The Community Boating Center

🚣‍♀️ Community Boating Center

Connecting All to the Bay—Safely, Joyfully, Equitably

Our mission is simple and powerful:To foster access, education, and community through small-watercraft recreation on Bellingham Bay—welcoming people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to connect with the water and each other.

💙 Why We Do This Work

The Community Boating Center (CBC) is a nonprofit built on values of inclusivity, equity, and environmental stewardship. Through innovative programs and dedicated partnerships, we provide transformative maritime experiences—creating lifelong skills and memories for over 5,000 participants each season.

🌟 Impact Highlights from 2024

• $140,000 in program scholarships, removing financial barriers to access.

• 2,000+ volunteer hours fueling our community-driven mission.

• 10,710 youth participant hours fostering skill-building and confidence.

• 400+ adaptive participants, supported through growing equipment offerings and partnerships.

• Pride, Women, Veteran, and Tribal programs making waves in equity and empowerment.

“It was just pure joy and patience and human kindness. I don’t know how anyone anywhere could pull together what you people have made here…”—Adaptive Participant

🌈 Our Programs

Adaptive Boating - Empowering individuals with disabilities to sail and paddle safely, supported by custom equipment and inclusive staff training.

Vamos al Mar - Serving Latinx, migrant, and ELL youth with bilingual, culturally responsive outdoor education in partnership with Vamos Outdoors.

Warriors on the Water - Providing veterans and their families with healing, community, and connection through time on the water.

Wild Women & Pride Paddle Programs - Breaking barriers for women and LGBTQIA+ community members through low-cost and welcoming outings.

Youth Racing & Internships - Developing the next generation of mariners, mentors, and environmental stewards.

Experiential Education - Through programs like Snow to Sea, students learn science, stewardship, and sustainability—on the water, in the woods, and in the lab.

🧭 What Your GiveBIG Gift Supports

We're on the cusp of transforming Bellingham Bay into a fully accessible and sustainable haven for all. With just $13,000 remaining to complete Phase 2 of our Wheelhouse Campaign, your contribution can help us:

• Install Adaptive Equipment: Procure and set up specialized adaptive watercraft and a transfer lift, enabling individuals with physical disabilities to safely and comfortably access the water.

• Launch Electric Safety Boats: Transition to electric-powered safety boats, eliminating fossil fuel use and promoting environmental stewardship on the Salish Sea.

These enhancements will coincide with the Port of Bellingham’s upcoming Small Watercraft Dock, making our campus, dock, and fleet fully accessible by 2025.

Your donation today doesn't just close a funding gap—it opens the door for countless community members to experience the joy and freedom of being on the water. Together, we can ensure that no one is left onshore.

💬 Testimonials

“The CBC gave my husband—an isolated veteran—a safe space and something to look forward to. That’s no small feat.”—Participant's spouse

“Our kids flourish at CBC…lifelong memories and unique skills that go way beyond summer fun.”—Parent of Youth Program Participant

🌊 Help Us Stay the Course

Your donation isn't just a drop in the bucket—it’s part of a growing tide of community-driven impact. Support us today and be part of a waterfront future that includes everyone.