EASE is the first and only adaptive sailing program in Pennsylvania.
AWARD WINNING PROGRAM
EASE makes a difference.
The Erie Adaptive Sailing Experience (EASE) program is organized and run by a team of twenty dedicated volunteers. Started in 2001, EASE allows community members, primarily youth, with physical and mental challenges to sail independently on Presque Isle Bay.
EASE Participants Learn Teamwork and Perseverance
Some participants are interested learning the sport of sailing, while others are involved purely for the pleasure of spending time on the water. Families, friends, and support staff participate on escort/safety vessels, watching their sailors and networking with caregivers and other families during the lesson.
EASE has created a supportive, caring, environment for those with physical and mental challenges to explore new adventures and build their confidence.
We are very pleased to announce that EASE, the Erie Adaptive Sailing Experience at the Bayfront Maritime Center is the recipient of the Robie Pierce Adaptive Sailing Program of the Year Award from US Sailing. Read the article here.
BMC sails with the Shriners Hospitals for Children’s kids, Erie Homes for Children and Adults residents, resident youth, the Barber National Institute participants, the Achievement Center patients, and visually impaired students from the Sight Center.
BMC hosted the Access Dinghy North American Championships in 2004, drawing 18 contestants from San Francisco to Quebec.
EASE has formed strong, long-lasting partnerships with several area organizations who also serve individuals with disabilities. We have worked with youth from the Dr. Gertrude Barber Center, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Northwest Pennsylvania Autism Society, The Sight Center of Erie, The Achievement Center, Erie Homes for Children and Adults.
EASE Program F.A.Q.
Our program meets for 9 consecutive Fridays beginning in late June and running until the 2nd week in August.
Sailing begins at 9:00 a.m. with 8 back-to-back one hour sessions, ending at approximately 4:30 p.m.
Participants pay $100 for a 4-week session (please note fees have not increased in over 9 years). They are provided a one on one sailing lesson with an experienced instructor.
Volunteers are trained by certified physical therapists in lifting procedures (Hoyer lift and 2-man lifts) for individuals with physical disabilities. Volunteers are also trained in on and offshore water rescue techniques.
For information on how to volunteer or questions, please email ease@bayfrontcenter.org
BMC’s Access Dinghies and larger keelboats, accommodate a wide variety of mobility and developmental issues. Hoyer lifts help move sailors from wheelchairs into the boats.
We have 3 chase boats (use of which have been donated by program volunteers) and 2 kayaks (donated by a participant’s family) that ensure safety on the water via towing or additional assistance with the access dinghy and our sailors.
