Adventure for Education
Preserving maritime heritage and empowering future generations through education—with your support, we can continue to chart a course toward a bright future for Lowell's Boat Shop and the communities it serves.
Schooner Bowdoin traveled to the 70N Parallel and we’re spreading the word about the educational programs at Lowell’s Boat Shop.
Our Goal
In June & July 2024, Lowell's Executive Director Graham McKay voyaged to the Arctic as an educator on the schooner Bowdoin. At Lowell’s Boat Shop, we honor the spirit of adventure and experiential learning. We are utilizing this successful voyage as a way to excite our community about the educational opportunities that exist here at Lowell’s and to stimulate support for our programs. Lowell’s set and met a goal of raising $50K during Graham’s hiatus, which in turn sparked a $16K matching donation from a generous supporter. When you donate here, 100%, directly supports educational programming at Lowell's Boat Shop.
This voyage is about more than sightseeing; it's about educating youth in the art of traditional seamanship, where every knot tied, every sail trimmed, and every course plotted is a teaching moment. Whether you're an experienced sailor or a landlubber with a sense of adventure, there are updates to enjoy from the icy waters of the Arctic.
Lowell's Boat Shop stands as a living testament to a long legacy of craftsmanship and tradition. For over two centuries, this humble shop has played a pivotal role in shaping the maritime identity of New England and perpetuating the art of traditional wooden boatbuilding. As we navigate the currents of modernity, Lowell's Boat Shop continues to serve as a vital hub for education, community engagement, and the preservation of maritime heritage. However, in order to sustain and expand its educational initiatives, Lowell's Boat Shop relies on the generous support of donors like you. Join us in our mission to uphold this legacy and empower future generations through maritime education.
The Need: Lowell's Boat Shop faces several challenges in fulfilling its mission to educate, inspire, and preserve maritime heritage.
Financial Sustainability: Like many non-profit organizations, Lowell's Boat Shop relies on donations to fund its educational programs, maintain its historic facilities, and sustain its operations. With fluctuating revenues and rising costs, securing consistent funding is essential for the shop's long-term viability.
Access to Education: Lowell's Boat Shop offers a wide range of educational programs, including apprentice programs, boatbuilding workshops, maritime history seminars, and youth outreach initiatives. However, the shop needs to raise 150K annually to provide affordable access to these programs. No student is denied a program for lack of ability to pay.
Preservation of Craftsmanship: As modern technologies and materials increasingly dominate the boatbuilding industry, the art of traditional wooden boatbuilding faces the risk of being lost. By supporting education programs at Lowell's Boat Shop, donors can help ensure that these time-honored skills and techniques are preserved and passed down to future generations.
The Impact: Your support for education programs at Lowell's Boat Shop will have a profound impact on the preservation of maritime heritage and the empowerment of individuals of all ages.
Hands-On Learning: Through boatbuilding workshops, maritime history lectures, and hands-on experiences, participants gain valuable skills, knowledge, and appreciation for maritime traditions and craftsmanship.
Community Engagement: Lowell's Boat Shop serves as a gathering place for individuals from all walks of life who share a passion for woodworking, craftsmanship, and maritime heritage. By supporting education programs, donors help foster a sense of community and belonging among participants and visitors.
Legacy Preservation: By investing in education at Lowell's Boat Shop, donors contribute to the preservation of an important piece of maritime history and ensure that future generations will continue to benefit from its legacy for years to come.
A Call to Action: Join us in supporting education programs at Lowell's Boat Shop and help preserve maritime heritage for generations to come. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference in the lives of participants and the sustainability of this historic institution. Together, we can ensure that Lowell's Boat Shop remains a beacon of maritime heritage and education for years to come.
Thank you for your commitment to preserving maritime heritage and empowering future generations through education. With your support, we can continue to chart a course toward a brighter future for Lowell's Boat Shop and the communities we serve.