$5 Million Matching Opportunity

The Thomas and Stacey Siebel Foundation will match, dollar for dollar, up to $5 million, all gifts for the Siebel Sailors Program made to the US Sailing Foundation by December 31, 2022. Created in 2019, the Siebel Sailors Program increases opportunity, access, and diversity in the sport of sailing.

“We are honored to continue and increase our support of this transformative program,” said Tom Siebel. “Our intent is to leverage our gift with the generosity of others across the country to inspire a new generation of diverse young sailors.”

Over the past two years, more than 1,000 young sailors at 20 Community Sailing Centers across the US have benefited from the Program. Once $5 million in gifts are raised and then matched with $5 million from the Siebel Foundation, the Siebel Sailors will grow from 1,000 sailors to 7,500, from 20 Centers to 40, from five regions to 10, and from one coach per region to two.

“Tom and Stacey Siebel had the progressive vision for what the Siebel Sailors Program could be, and the incredible generosity to make it a reality,” said US Sailing CEO Alan Ostfield. “After the success of its inaugural years, we are grateful for their continued generosity enabling us to deepen and expand this terrific program.”

The Siebel Sailors Program is unique in its drive to engage youth from diverse backgrounds, provide scholarships for under-resourced children, and adapt to meet the needs of the individual sailors. Coaches mentor students to develop a lifelong mindset of problem-solving and confidence while the youth have fun and acquire a love of sailing.

“The US Sailing Foundation can’t thank Tom and Stacey enough for their generosity,” said Bill Ruh, Chair of the US Sailing Foundation. “We’re looking forward to the challenge of raising $5 million to match Stacey and Tom’s gift and thereby multiplying the impact of the Program.”

Siebel Sailors Program Manager, Blair Overman, knows first-hand what this meaningful gift can do. “Siebel Sailors feel heard,” said Overman. “Because they are actively involved in the learning experience, they are more likely to stick with the Program even when the lessons get harder.

“This retention helps set the stage for long-term participation, rather than a one-and-done introductory experience. Siebel Sailors will be the face of sailing for years to come and we plan to support the entirety of their journey.”

To make a donation:
Online: https://www.ussailing.org/about/ussf/donate/annual-appeal-siebel-sailors/
Mail: US Sailing Foundation at 1 Roger Williams University Way, Bristol, RI 02809
Phone: 401-342-7922.

For more information about transformative gift opportunities, contact Chief Development Officer Jill Nosach at jillnosach@ussailingfoundation.org.

Source: US Sailing