Create Access & Opportunity for Chicago’s Youth

CYC MEMBER CHARGE

  • Read the CYCF Gift Policy

  • Mail checks payable to the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation:

    Chicago Yacht Club Foundation
    400 East Monroe Street
    Chicago, IL 60603

  • Chicago Yacht Club Members can use this LINK to charge their member account.

    Zero processing fees apply; please allow additional processing time for acknowledgement letters.

  • For transfer details and instructions, please contact: info@chicagoyachtclubfoundation.org

  • Many employers offer matching gift programs that can double or even triple the impact of your donation. Check with your Human Resources or corporate giving department to determine whether your employer matches charitable contributions.

    To submit a matching gift request, provide your employer with the following information:
    Chicago Yacht Club Foundation, EIN 36-3733864.
    400 East Monroe Street, Chicago, IL 60603

    If your employer requires additional documentation, confirmation of tax-exempt status, or verification of your gift, please contact us at: info@chicagoyachtclubfoundation.org

  • Turn a portion of your retirement savings into enduring opportunities for Chicago youth to learn, lead, and thrive—on the water and in life. Contact info@chicagoyachtclubfoundation.org

  • Your DAF grant can open new horizons—helping Chicago youth gain confidence, skills, and connection on Lake Michigan.

  • Ensure future generations have access to the water you love through a gift in your will or estate plan. Contact info@chicagoyachtclubfoundation.org

  • Consider donating your boat and receiving the maximum legal tax deduction, while supporting programs that will help keep boating a safe and enjoyable pastime for generations to come. The Foundation will consider donations of new or used boats in good working condition, including powerboats, sailboats, and PWCs. Vessels must be titled or documented, free of encumbrances, and are subject to review and approval. For boats that might not be a good fit for CYC Foundation usage, please consider using Nautical Donations, where proceeds from the sale of donated boats can be directed to us.

  • Honor someone special with a tribute or memorial gift that creates lasting opportunities for Chicago youth on and off the water. All donation methods can be designated in honor or memory of you or your loved one(s).

The Impact of Your Gift

$5,000

Sailing School Scholarship

Your gift enables two sailors to attend four weeks of sailing school, including meals and full-time instruction. CYCF awards scholarships to sailing schools all over the Chicagoland area. Help youth build their skills on the water! 

$2,500

Sea Scouts Long Cruise

Fund an overnight sailing adventure for the Sea Scout Ship #5870 Privateer. Youth aged 14-18 learn responsibility, respect for the environment, teamwork, problem-solving, and self-reliance. Scouts put their navigation, weather, water rescue, and sailing theory skills to the test!

$1,000

Week of Boating Camp

Sponsors one youth for a full week of Adventure Boating Camp, complete with sailing gear, lunch, and instruction. This program introduces kids to a wide range of activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming and sailing!

$500

Swimming Lessons

Cover eight life-saving swimming lessons, along with swimsuits and goggles, for three youth. Help kids build confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging around the water.

$250

Intro Cruise

Sponsor an introductory sail with a STEM focus for ten youth. These hands-on experiences spark curiosity by getting youth out on Lake Michigan. For many, it’s their first time on a boat.

$100

Sailor Packs

Equip two first-time campers with complete “sailor packs”—swimsuits, hats, water shoes, sunglasses, water bottles, and camp shirts—so every child arrives at the dock feeling safe and comfortable.

A gift of any amount helps empower youth through education and exposure to new opportunities on and around the water. CYCF programs are about more than sailing instruction—they are designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and develop leadership.

The Chicago Yacht Club Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.