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Gratitude, Generosity & Community are Afloat This Holiday Season
As Thanksgiving nears, the Coconut Grove Sailing Club is celebrating the volunteers who keep its sails full and its spirit thriving. From youth sailors to seasoned mariners, members of all ages step up year-round to support events, lend a hand, and strengthen the club’s community heartbeat. With hands-on training seminars, everyone—rookie or veteran—can dive in and make an impact.
“Providing on-the-water experience to the community sits at the heart of everything the CGSC does,” says CGSC Director Lauren Simpson. “Although it’s a sailing club, we know that not everyone begins their journey ready to set sail.” The club offers alternative ways to explore and learn about Biscayne Bay, sharing knowledge about the surrounding islands and natural habitat we call home.
“Our goal is to inspire curiosity and a lasting connection to the water.”
CGSC’s Island Clean-Up program, held six to eight times annually, has become one The club’s most successful community programs. Volunteers of all ages join in – both on land and on the water – with training available for anyone that’s eager to learn.
“Being stewards to the environment, giving back to the community at large, and meeting others who share our love for the water is both meaningful and a lot of fun,” adds Simpson.
Biscayne Bay is home to a plethora of marine life, and the club has had unforgettable encounters that remind everyone why caring for these waters matters so much. On two occasions, volunteers came across sea turtles tangled in debris and were able to safely free them and clear the area. “The beloved manatees, who members spot rather frequently, also serve as a reminder of the importance of keeping the bay clean. And with so much floating debris, the danger is real if they accidentally ingest fishing line or plastic,” she says.
During the recent Clarington Island Cleanup (Sept. 16), volunteers collected more than 300 pounds of trash in just a few hours—a powerful testament to community teamwork. These events attract both longtime helpers and newcomers who simply want to do their part to keep the bay clean. Litter along the coast and uninhabited islands can easily wash into the bay and ocean, so every effort truly counts.
Beyond visible results, these cleanups protect marine ecosystems and improve water health while raising public awareness about ocean pollution and promoting environmental guardianship. Knowing that the club is doing its part to help make a difference is rewarding in itself.
Over the weekend of Nov. 15–16, members gathered for the annual Member Work Weekend, closing the club so everyone could pitch in together. With a strong turnout, volunteers tackled minor repairs, painting, organizing, landscaping, and cleaning throughout the grounds and clubhouse. “Nowhere is off-limits,” says Simpson, calling it a true reflection of teamwork and shared pride. It’s another reminder of what the club was built on: community, commitment, and care.
Perhaps the most meaningful impact comes from CGSC’s youth scholarship program. The club has been able to sponsor young sailors from their first beginner lessons all the way to national and international regattas.
“There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a child carry our tradition forward and succeed in a sport they truly enjoy,” Simpson says. “While not all qualify for major competitions, every child has the opportunity to race locally and grow through the experience.
“When the club introduces a child to the wonderful world of sailing and the joy of being out on the water, something truly special happens. Their confidence grows alongside their skills. Teaching seamanship and camaraderie goes hand in hand with building awareness.”
Looking ahead, CGSC welcomes the broader community to get involved. Anyone can stop by, take a tour, and ask questions. There are countless ways to participate—through committees, social events, sailing regattas, and volunteer opportunities—all designed to support the club and help keep Biscayne Bay clean.
This Thanksgiving season, the Coconut Grove Sailing Club’s spirit of giving back reminds us that the greatest gifts often come not from what we receive, but from what we give to our community and our shared waters.
ABOUT THE COCONUT GROVE SAILING CLUB
The Coconut Grove Sailing Club has been a cornerstone of Miami’s sailing community since 1946. Founded by local residents with a shared passion for sailing, CGSC offers comprehensive sailing education, from youth programs to adult classes.
The CGSC is Located at 2990 South Bayshore Drive, Miami, FL 33133. For more information, visit www.cgsc.org or email icdirector@cgsc.org.
