Our History

Building upon community sailing programs sponsored by the Salem Park, Recreation & Community Services Department, Sail Salem was established and began offering summer sailing programs in 2007. Our educational sailing program exists to empower all participants, regardless of economic and ethnic background, to develop independence, self-confidence, and communication skills, while fostering teamwork, community spirit and volunteering through the sport of sailing.

Sail Salem is registered with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. It complies with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and is licensed by the Salem Board of Health.

Sail Salem Managment

Sail Salem is managed by a volunteer-based Executive Board and Board of Directors in consultation with an Advisory Board. Sail Salem thanks the volunteers that contribute their time and expertise, the many sponsors & contributors that provide financial support, the City of Salem, and the many young people and their parents who participate in our programs and make the Sail Sailem efforts worthwhile.

Sail Salem Standing Committees

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
The Executive Committee addresses issues presented by the Program Director between Board Meetings and formulates Board meeting agendas.

FINANCE COMMITTEE
Responsible for overseeing the budget and financial operations. Skills / experience desired: CPA, CFO or controller, non-profit reporting.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION (DEI) COMMITTEE
Responsible for researching, defining, and recommending Board directions to ensure a diversified, representative, and inclusive environment at Sail Salem. Skills / experience desired: DEI experience, strong advocacy, Salem community contacts.

DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Responsible for planning and overseeing fundraising efforts. Skills / experience desired: fundraising experience, monied contacts, grant writing experience, investment background.

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
Responsible for community and public relations, press releases, social media, and marketing materials. Skills / experience desired: marketing / media experience and skills with social media, creative design.

GOVERNANCE AND NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Responsible for Board performance, recruiting /on-boarding (training) new Board members and creating Board materials. Skills / experience desired: community connections, legal skills, board governance expertise.

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT COMMITTEE
Responsible for all property and equipment issues including repairing and replacement, storage and overseeing all property building and maintenance. Skills / experience desired: construction, boat building and repair, sail and rigging experience.

PROGRAM COMMITTEE
Responsible for program content, scheduling, time keeping, registration and human resources. Skills / experience desired: sailing instruction, camp administration, STEAM teaching, registration, and human resources.