The
Centre
‘ A Charity Changing People's Lives Through Sailing ’
ABOUT AHOY
At AHOY we use the experience of sailing to break down many of the barriers and divides that exist within today's society, to bring together people from different walks of life and backgrounds.
Through the activities and courses at AHOY, we teach and train people not only how to sail or row, but also about helping others, so that they can then go on and teach and help others.
Our primary objective is working with disadvantaged youth and people with disabilities.
However, the Centre caters for all - young, disabled and retired alike. It offers them all the experience, opportunities and new horizons gained through water-based activities
There is a major focus on teamwork and personal development, and through the courses and activities we look to build self-esteem, confidence and offer training which will lead to employment.
The Centre had its formal opening by HRH The Princess Royal, and since the commencement of running activities in May 2004, we have worked with over 5,000 children and adults. Most have received RYA (Royal Yachting Association) nationally recognised qualifications.
We work with many different sectors - Disadvantaged Youth - People with Disabilities - Local Schools - People at risk of Offending - Ex-offenders and many other groups and organisations. We run projects working with the Metropolitan Police and the Probation Service.
The AHOY Volunteers come from various walks of life, and a lot of the Youth Volunteers have become involved by first participating in an activity run by the Centre. Being an AHOY Volunteer can take on many different roles; being trained to become a Sailing Instructor - Safety Boat Officer - Shore Master - Minibus Driver - Power Boat Instructor. For others, it is helping out in supporting these activities both on water and on shore - fundraising - administration, and many other roles that are required to be filled in order to ensure that AHOY continues to operate.
For Youth Volunteers, they sign up to become 'Shipmates' and pledge to be trained so that they can, in turn, help others to learn how to sail. They also have to help out on maintenance and fundraising at the Centre.
The AHOY Vision
(mission statement)
AHOY will continue to develop and expand its facilities to create a Flagship Centre for water-based activities that continue to breakdown social barriers and teach and train people to help others.
By doing so more people will have the opportunity to benefit from the activities, courses and experiences, gaining confidence and new horizons.
AHOY is changing people's lives through the medium of sailing.
