EDITOR’S NOTE: The brainchild of the late Capt. Mark Drewelow, YachtAid Global is on a mission to change lives without altering the course of the yachts supporting its goal. In light of Drewelow’s recent passing, we’re bringing back a podcast episode with him from 2009. It was three years after he established the non-profit. The veritable anchors of hope that have dropped in the ensuing 16 years have come from more than 300 yachts. Significantly, they have touched the shores of more than 25 countries. Equally important, the organization remains committed to helping communities and sharing generosity one vessel at a time.
In the world of luxury yachts and marine adventures, one might not immediately think of altruism and aid. Yet, YachtAid Global delivers this and more to communities in need worldwide.
With yachting experience spanning two decades, from cruising the Med to circumnavigating the globe, Drewelow had an indelible imprint of the people he encountered. Upon stepping ashore in 2004 and establishing his port-services company C2C, he contemplated leveraging his connections for a greater good. That therefore led to YachtAid Global, a seamless marriage between luxury yachting and humanitarian outreach. The idea was simple, really: mobilizing yachts to deliver essential supplies to underserved, remote communities.
The inaugural voyage of this concept in action saw the sailing superyacht Timoneer carrying school supplies from San Diego to Nicaragua. It was minimally invasive for the crew, yet profoundly impactful for the recipients, in keeping with the nonprofit’s vision.
Through word of mouth, partnerships with captains, crew, and sometimes serendipitous meetings, YachtAid Global has expanded its reach. The network has facilitated missions across Belize, Mexico, Panama, and Alaska, for example, and as far as Bali and Indonesia. These missions have provided more than just pencils and books. In fact, they’ve delivered medical equipment and other necessities, plus built community centers in communities lacking basic resources.
As YachtAid Global’s supporters sail, the ocean waves aren’t the only things that stir. The promise of support offers hope and inspiration for the beneficiaries of these rich acts of goodwill. Each voyage is meticulously planned, ensuring that donated goods are delivered to areas where they can make a transformative impact.
Drewelow emphasized the organization’s broad impact, yet insists that the guiding principle is simplicity and community engagement. The essence lies in cultivating a spirit of giving. Further important, as mentioned above, is creating anchors of hope.
What’s refreshing about YachtAid Global is not just the story of the places it has touched, but the potential it signifies. It reaffirms that in the realm of luxury and privilege, a profound commitment to helping others does exist.
Listen to the episode above, or in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio Podcasts, or your favorite platform. Simply click the appropriate icon here. A transcript is available upon request.
YachtAid Global yachtaidglobal.org
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