About Us
The Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association (LWSA) has been a pillar of youth sailing education on Lake Winnipesaukee since its founding in 1988. Our mission is to promote sailing for all, regardless of background, through our non-profit educational programs.
History
Founded in 1988 as the Lake Winnipesaukee Yacht Racing Association, the Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association (LWSA) has steadfastly prioritized youth sailing education since its inception. For an extended period, the Sailing School found a gracious host at Winnipesaukee Yacht Club and at Fay's Boatyard, courtesy of Merrill Fay. In 2013, LWSA realized a longstanding goal of expanding its capacity and impact on young sailors. This vision materialized as we moved into our dedicated facility on Smith Cove in Gilford, strategically located adjacent to Fay's Boatyard. This significant step was made possible through the generous contributions of both major benefactors and numerous small donors. Their support allowed us to transform an aging lakeside cottage, complete with a dock and beach, into the Dave Adams Memorial Sailing Center. This center, named in honor of a local sailor who embarked on his sailing journey at LWSA but tragically passed away in his youth, stands as a testament to our commitment to the sailing community and its enduring legacy.
Mission
Our mission at LWSA is to promote and enhance engagement in the sport of sailing, with a particular focus on Lake Winnipesaukee. In pursuit of this mission, we are dedicated to eliminating barriers related to knowledge, financial means, disability, and age. As a non-profit charity, we operate for the collective benefit of the people and communities in the Lakes Region, both today and for future generations. In fulfilling our mission, we are committed to fostering values such as safety, self-confidence, teamwork, honesty, positive sporting attitudes, and a deep appreciation for our environment.
Vision
We aspire for LWSA to be widely recognized as the epicenter of sailing activities for the people of the Lakes Region. Beyond that, we aim to continue to be a valued contributor to youth development and an important resource for our community.
We aim to grow in sensible fashion, which may mean expansion of existing programs and introduction of new initiatives such as an adaptive program for individuals with disabilities.
Financial accessibility continues to be a key priority. We aim to continue to ensure that the cost of participation is never a hindrance for anyone interested in our sailing programs, and we further aim to increase participation among needy students and families.
We have long been a sustainable organization, totally free from mortgage or debt, and with sound financial management. Our goal is to continue in that fashion and to increase our base of support among members and the community at large.
Non-Profit Filings
In the interest of transparency, as a non-profit charitable organization, LWSA publishes its Form 990 each year documents may be found here.