The Shake-A-Leg Miami Seaworthy Program provides yearlong lessons that train students with disabilities to sail and boat on Biscayne Bay, educates them about the marine environment and prepares them for greater independence and improved social, academic and job skills.
The program is offered one day per week throughout the school year. Each trip follows a curriculum based on New Generation Sunshine State Standards (NGSSS) and Sprit of America safe boating practices.
The program is operated in conjunction with area schools including Homestead middle and high schools, Jorge Mas Canosa, Gulfstream,
The Learning Experience, and Booker T. Washington. Approximately 150 students participate weekly.
Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Irma, the program was delayed in starting but this did not stop the students.
“Once the students got in the boats their enthusiasm grew and their desire to learn flourished,” said William Davis, CRT, program manager. “Students with disabilities have tremendous potential. When learning in the natural environment and knowing they can participate in recreational activities, it boosts their confidence and provides valuable activities that will improve their quality of life as well as participating with their family and friends.”
A special addition to the Seaworthy Program is a water tour of Port Miami. The port is one of the most accessible in America and a major economic engine for Miami-Dade County. Dwight Edwards, Outreach director for Port Miami joins the students on the Shake-A-Leg Boat and narrates the tour.
“Having the students see the container ships and the cruise lines up close gives them a perspective they could never gain from a book,” Edwards said.
This program is made possible by funding from the Taft Foundation and other private contribution.
Shake-A-Leg Miami, South Florida’s premier community watersports and boating center is a nonprofit focused on inspiring and empowering children and adults with physical, developmental or socio-economic challenges. It is located on the shores of Biscayne Bay at 2620 S. Bayshore Dr. in Coconut Grove. In partnership with the City of Miami, its goal is to improve the health, education and independence of adults and children, in an inclusive community setting.
For more information on this program and how to sign up your student or school send email to info@shakealegmiami.org.
