Vetsboats Foundation

VetsBoats is an all-volunter non-profit organization dedicated to restoring health and well-being to military veterans suffering from PTSD and traumatic injuries through the transformative power of sailing. Our purpose is to inspire and motivate veterans to move from isolation into active participation and community. VetsBoats promotes well-being and community for veterans and their families through therapeutic sailing, leveraging a scalable, nationwide network of local chapters, partner organizations, and community volunteers. Through our programs, we create an environment where veterans can rediscover their inner strengths and experience the camaraderie of fellow service members. This shared purpose and teamwork are fundamental to our approach, fostering healing and personal growth. At the heart of our work is the belief in the therapeutic benefits of sailing and maritime activities. We offer three core programs, each designed to promote teamwork, community healing, and mindfulness. Our Mission: provide measurable improvement in the health and well-being of veterans everywhere. We are based in the San Francisco Bay Area and operate a national network to serve veterans and their families. How does it work? We partner with boat owners, the VA, and veteran service organizations to provide a full suite of sailing programs: mindfulness-based therapeutic sailing, marine education, sail training, and restoration. These activities teach new skills while fostering camaraderie, teamwork, and a sense of community among veterans, helping them move from isolation to active participation in a supportive environment. What are the results? Since we started with one boat in 2014, we have taken over 2,500 veterans and their families sailing. We operate with over 20 partner boats in the San Francisco Bay Area, San Diego CA, Galveston TX, Springfield OH, and Annapolis MD. And we partner with VA Recreational Therapy Centers in those areas.