Our Inspiration

Steve Piche

An incredible sailor with a personality as big as his heart, shared his love of sailing with others in so many ways. A dedicated husband, father of two, and friend to so very many. We lost Steve unexpectedly in January 2021. He was always a huge supporter and promoter of our Big Brothers / Big Sisters sailing day. As we seek to engage under-served youth and provide them the opportunity to experience sailing and all that it teaches us through Sail Strong, we remember and celebrate Steve.

Our History

The local sailing fleet had worked with Big Brothers / Big Sisters for over 25 years, offering a “Hobie Day” once a year where all BB/BS bigs and littles were invited to go sailing. That was followed by then sending a small handful of BB/BS youth to sailing camp each year. In 2023, Sail Strong was created to honor Steve Piche by taking the next step and offering a full-camp of 25 youth the opportunity to experience sailing, and through sailing to grow life-long skills of confidence, problem-solving, critical thinking, and many others.

Vision

“Our vision is to become a leading beacon of empowerment for under-served youth, expanding our reach to provide more young people with the opportunity to learn life skills through sailing. We aspire to create a future where every child, regardless of background, can confidently navigate their own course to success, resilience, and personal growth.”

Mission

“Empowering under-served youth to navigate life’s challenges, we harness the transformative power of sailing to instill confidence, resilience, and essential life skills. Through hands-on experiences and mentorship on the water, we strive to create a supportive community where young people can chart their own courses toward brighter futures.”

Values

Empowerment: Building confidence and independence in youth through sailing skills.
Racial Equity: Ensuring all individuals have equal opportunities, access to resources, and fair treatment, fostering a just and inclusive environment.
Education: Providing hands-on learning and life skills through sailing.
Community Engagement: Fostering connections and positive contributions to local communities.
Sustainability: Promoting environmental stewardship and appreciation for marine ecosystems.

The Sail Strong Team


Nancy Ceballos

Board Member
Education

Joined our team 2025.

I am a proud member of Sail Strong because it gives opportunities to underprivileged youth to be able to experience a direct interaction with nature (wind, water, and sun). Sail Strong camp encourages teamwork and life long beautiful friendships.


Joe Adair

Board Member
Finance

Joined our team 2025

I joined the Sailstrong Board to make a lasting impact on the lives of future leaders in our community. Together, we strive to strengthen the city where we live, work, and worship.


Anne Morley

Board Member
Accountant

Joined our team 2025

After photographing the SS kids during camp, I was in awe of the enthusiasm and love of sailing that they had. Watching some of them grow into certified sailing instructors is amazing. Giving kids a little makes big differences in their lives.


Liara Silva

Board Member
Attorney

Joined our team 2025.

I am passionate about access to education in our communities, including hands-on learning opportunities and the impact they can have on our brilliant youth.


Chris Holt

Board Member
Software Industry

Joined our team 2022

Learning to sail made a profound impact on my life. I want to bring its foundation of core strengths to kids who might not have the opportunity to experience that growth.


Kesha Hatch Bozeman

Incoming Board Member
Advertising / Marketing

Joined our team 2026

I believe every child deserves access to experiences that expand their confidence, curiosity, and sense of possibility. Serving on the SS board allows me to help open doors, remove barriers, and make sure more kids get life-changing opportunities on and off the water.


Terri Kiszer

Founder / Executive Director
Software / Education

Joined our team 2022

In creating Sail Strong, I wanted to promote the joy and impact that Steve Piche brought to sailing. He always believed in sharing the joy and experience of sailing with everyone around him, especially youth.

Join the Sail Strong Family!


Be part of building our youth so they may become strong future leaders.

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