Able Sail - Accessible Sailing Volunteer

Royal Hamilton Yacht Club / Greater Hamilton Community Sailing School, 555 Bay Street North, Hamilton, ON, L8L 1H1 [map]

3-24 hours / monthly

April - August

At Royal Hamilton Yacht Club, Able Sail volunteers support inclusive sailing programs that provide individuals of all abilities with safe, enjoyable, and empowering experiences on the water. No prior sailing experience is required, and training is provided!

Key Responsibilities:
- Assist participants with boarding, disembarking, and safe movement on docks and boats
- Support adaptive sailing activities under the direction of program staff and instructors
- Help rig, de-rig, and maintain boats and adaptive equipment
- Act as a companion or sailing partner, offering encouragement and clear communication
- Monitor participant safety and follow all safety procedures and instructions
- Assist with launching, docking, and securing vessels
- Provide a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment for all participants
- Help with basic program setup and cleanup before and after sessions

Additional Expectations:
- Attend volunteer orientation/training sessions
- Work collaboratively with staff, fellow volunteers, and participants
- Be adaptable: program activities are weather-dependent and may change
- Demonstrate patience, reliability, and a positive attitude

Apply Now

Additional Details & Skills Required

Basic training for Able Sail Volunteers includes a brief orientation covering safety procedures, dock and boat handling, and program expectations. Volunteers learn how to support participants of all abilities with respectful communication and safe transfers. Training also includes an introduction to sailing basics and adaptive equipment, plus on-the-water shadowing with experienced volunteers. No prior experience required.

Why should you volunteer for this opportunity?

- Hands-on experience supporting people of all abilities while building skills in communication, accessibility, and teamwork.
- Enjoy flexible scheduling and responsibilities that you are comfortable with
- Choose to be shore-based or to get out on the water and learn basic sailing and safety skills—no experience needed.
- Great for healthcare/education career development
- Work with a great community to deliver unique, meaningful & tangible impact
- Volunteer hours and references available

Activities involved

Community Outreach Companion/Visitor Outing Assistant Sport Coach

Skills required

Fitness Mentoring Patient Care Visiting

Flexible in schedule
Good for groups
Good for youth
Accessible by public transit