Empowering Women to Set Sail: The Community Boating Program Celebrates International Women's Day with a Focus on Breaking Barriers
Port Angeles, March 5, 2024 — The Community Boating Program, a leading advocate for boating education in Clallam County, is proud to join the global celebration of International Women's Day on March 8th, recognizing the achievements of women worldwide and reaffirms its commitment to promoting equality and empowering women in the world of boating.
Breaking both real and perceived barriers, the Community Boating Program has been creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for women to explore sailing. With a strong emphasis on providing a safe and supportive space, they encourage women to take up the challenge of learning to sail, fostering a sense of confidence, camaraderie, and skill development. "Our Women's Sailing Program is designed to inspire and empower women to embrace the sailing lifestyle, whether it's for casual sailing, racing, or cruising. We believe that sailing is for everyone, and through our program, we aim to create opportunities for women to experience the thrill and joy of being out on the water," said Erika Hansen-Dahlin, Vice Chairperson.
The Women's Sailing Program goes beyond traditional boating education, offering a holistic approach that caters to the unique needs and aspirations of women. The program provides hands-on training, mentorship opportunities, and a supportive community where women can share their experiences, learn from each other, and build lasting connections. They believe that by actively encouraging women to participate in boating, they can contribute to a more diverse and inclusive maritime community. The program emphasizes that sailing is not just a sport but a lifestyle that fosters independence, leadership, and a deep connection to the water.
The Community Boating Program is honored to share the voices of participants from our Women's Sailing Program: Summer Dio, from Port Angeles, "The Women's Sailing Program has created a space where learning to sail is so much more. The community, the growth, the evolution of oneself in a space truly supported by other women while learning to handle oneself and one's boat amongst the varied elements of the PNW waters and feeling the self-defining freedom that comes from doing so has been nothing short of profound and transformative."
Liz Alyn, from Neah Bay, “Being a part of the Women’s Sailing Program has given me the space to expand my skills and learn through doing while being surrounded by a supportive, knowledgeable community. My love of sailing is absolutely because of my love for this program."
Cristina Eppers, from Sequim, “The CBP and their Women's Sailing Program have provided a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for expanding my sailing knowledge and practicing my skills on the water. It's affordable, fits around my busy schedule, and I have become a part of a fantastic community of other women sailors who have become great friends. It's been life-changing!”
As we commemorate International Women's Day, the Community Boating Program extends an invitation to women of all ages and backgrounds to join the Women's Sailing Program and be a part of a movement that celebrates empowerment, resilience, and achievement on the high seas.
For more information on the Women's Sailing Program or to get involved, please visit our Women's Sailing Page or look for opportunities to engage with us during this year's Port Angeles Maritime Festival June 8 & 9, 2024.