RISE, a national nonprofit group that works to eliminate racism and champions social justice, is collaborating with zero-emission professional sailing firm SailGP, Hudson River Community Sailing (HRCS), and Good Shepherd Services (GSS) to educate and empower New York City youth.
A press release shared with The Business Download explained RISE started a leadership program in May with 30 students working with HRCS and GSS to address racial issues and how to improve race relations. The workshops taught students to sail and team building while discussing equity versus equality, identity, and using sport as an outlet for social change.
Mike Buckley, CEO of the United States SailGP team, coached the students on June 3 while on the water. SailGP started its partnership with HRCS in April 2024 to teach STEM to middle and high school students in addition to sailing education. The organization also fosters community building with New Yorkers with disabilities.
A benefit was held for HRCS, where money was raised via the HRSC Dark n’ Stormy auction. One experience on tap was the chance to sit on the U.S. SailGP boat.
Photo Courtesy SailGP
“With the upcoming Sail Grand Prix coming to New York June 22–23, it presents the perfect opportunity to introduce HRCS students to the top of our sport,” said Buckley in an official SailGP blog. “I believe our partnership will go far beyond the June event, however. I know how sailing has changed my life and the opportunities it has provided me. I look forward to unlocking some of those opportunities in partnership with HRCS — from working with the students to provide coaching, internships, and supporting them as they explore the sport.”
A three-part social justice education program was held before the Mubadala New York Grand Prix. On June 19, RISE will conduct a meet-and-greet with Team USA. SailGP hopes this outreach will open new doors for diversifying youth and professional sailing.
“We are absolutely thrilled to collaborate with these organizations to use the sport of sailing as a vehicle to empower youth and build connection across communities,” Diahann Billings-Burford, RISE chief executive officer, said in the press release.
“To be able to create spaces that build trust and create pathways for positive communication for these participants, all while learning more about a growing sport, is truly incredible.”
RISE, founded in 2015, has worked in more than 40 states to foster racial equality and social justice through sports like football and basketball. The organization works with everything from the Power 3 college football conferences and their respective teams, Division II and Division III college sports programs, and youth sports organizations.
Photo Courtesy SailGP
“Our partnership with RISE, the U.S. SailGP Team, and Good Shepherd Services aligns perfectly with our mission of supporting leadership and academic success in New York City youth,” Robert Burke, HRCS executive director, said in the press release. “By equipping our students with both the knowledge from the youth leadership workshops and the skills gained through sailing, we are empowering them to navigate not only the waters but also the societal challenges they will undoubtedly encounter.”
Eco-activists praise SailGP for its emission-free operations. All league sailboats are electric-powered and use solar to generate energy along with wind power in the sails. The league has campaigned for sustainable living and hosts environmental activism events during or after a Grand Prix.
