Disabled Sailing Association of British Columbia

The Disabled Sailing Association of British Columbia, now known as the Adaptive Sailing Association of British Columbia (ASABC), is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to providing people with physical disabilities the opportunity to engage in sailing. Founded in 1988 by Sam Sullivan, a quadriplegic, the organization aims to empower individuals by offering them a unique experience of independence and freedom through sailing[1][2].

Mission and Activities

The main mission of the ASABC is to enhance the lives of people with disabilities by promoting accessible and inclusive sailing experiences. The organization operates a fleet of specially designed Martin 16 sailboats from the Jericho Sailing Centre in Vancouver. These sailboats are equipped with innovative technologies such as sip-and-puff systems, allowing individuals with high-level disabilities to control the vessels independently. The ASABC offers both recreational and competitive sailing programs, catering to individuals with varying levels of disability[1][2].

History

The ASABC was initially founded as the Disabled Sailing Association of British Columbia. The organization underwent a pivotal change in the early 1990s with the introduction of sip-and-puff technology, which significantly expanded accessibility for sailors with limited mobility. In the mid-1990s, the Martin 16 sailboat, designed by Don Martin, became a cornerstone of the organization's fleet. This vessel is notable for its adaptability, allowing control via conventional means, joystick, or sip-and-puff interfaces. The ASABC has evolved over the years, expanding its services to multiple locations in British Columbia, including Victoria, Chemainus, and Kelowna[2][5].

Impact and Operations

Annually, the ASABC facilitates between 800 and 1,000 sailing experiences across its locations, offering opportunities for individuals to engage in leisure sailing or competitive racing. The organization emphasizes the transformative impact of sailing on the lives of people with disabilities, promoting a sense of freedom, independence, and empowerment[2].

Organizational Structure

The ASABC is supported by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. It maintains a strong presence in British Columbia, with operations spanning from May to August each year. The organization relies on donations and community support to continue its mission of making sailing accessible to all[1][5].

[1] https://asabc.org [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adaptive_Sailing_Association_of_British_Columbia [3] https://www.gg.ca/en/heraldry/public-register/project/223 [4] https://jsca.bc.ca/clubs/disabled-sailing-association/ [5] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/disabled-sailing-association-of-british-columbia/