From the Helm

by Greg Miarecki

March 11, 2025

Dear Friends,

Thanks to your generous support and encouragement, I’m thrilled to share that the Annual Appeal was an extraordinary success—raising more than $890,000. This remarkable outcome reflects the strength of our community and our shared commitment to expanding access to boating. Together, we are creating meaningful opportunities for Chicago youth on Lake Michigan.

Looking ahead to 2026, your support is fueling our expansion and enabling us to broaden our reach while deepening our impact. Thanks to a generous grant from the Captain Dave’s Foundation, we will commission our third J/100 for Monroe Sailing Camp, S/V Gale Force, and—together with the Jackson Park Yacht Club Sailing School, the Chicago Park District, and the Don Wilson Family Foundation—launch a new sailing and swimming camp at 31st Street Harbor. We are also amplifying our programming for high school–aged youth, with a focus on mentoring, leadership, and academic support.

We are deeply grateful for your trust and partnership. Your support makes this progress possible and helps ensure a strong, sustainable future for the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation and the youth we serve. We’re doing big things, together!

Greg Miarecki
President
Chicago Yacht Club Foundation
greg@chicagoyachtclubfoundation.org

Introducing girls to new water activities is a great example of doing bold things. Whether they’re sailing, swimming, or learning about careers on the water, these experiences will help them build confidence that’s translatable to other areas of their lives."
––KIAH WILSON, GIRLS INC. DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT