Sail Sand Point received a $1,000 grant from NMTA to support their mission of getting people of all abilities out on the water. We caught up with executive director Seth Muir to learn more about their work.
What does Sail Sand Point do?
Sail Sand Point (SSP) is a community boating center with a mission to bring the joy and life-enhancing benefits of sailing and small boats to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. We do this through a wide range of programs, camps, classes, rentals, storage, volunteer work trade opportunities, and a robust scholarship program.
How were the NMTA Grow Boating grant dollars used?
The $1,000 grant funded scholarships for seven children entering our Youth Beginner Program, which introduces brand-new sailors ages 8–10 to the water in Optimist sailboats. Of these young sailors, four were girls and three were boys, and none identified as white—demonstrating the reach of these scholarships in broadening participation.
Did the funds make something possible that otherwise wouldn’t have happened?
Yes. This year we saw a dramatic increase in requests for scholarships. Without support from community partners like NMTA, we simply would not have been able to meet this growing need. The funding ensured those seven campers were able to experience sailing for the first time.
How did the grant advance NMTA’s Grow Boating mission?
The scholarships directly aligned with Grow Boating’s goals: they got new boaters on the water, promoted diversity and inclusion, and provided a gateway for families who might not otherwise have had access. By making tuition possible, NMTA helped spark a lifelong connection to boating for these kids.
Is there anything NMTA members should know about Sail Sand Point right now?
We’re thrilled to share that SSP was awarded $5 million from the King County Parks Levy to renovate our waterfront assets and boathouse. We’re now in the design phase for our future facility, a project expected to cost $10–15 million. To bring this vision to life, we will be seeking donors, skilled volunteers, and board members who want to help shape the next chapter of SSP.
How can NMTA members help?
Contributions to our annual fund, boat fund, or upcoming capital campaign are deeply appreciated. We also welcome skilled volunteers—particularly those willing to take new sailors out on catamarans through our summer Leeway Program.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
A heartfelt thank-you to NMTA’s Grow Boating Program. Every dollar makes a real difference in our ability to open the doors of boating to more people.