Yesterday I met one of the men who built this gorgeous tall ship, the R. Tucker Thompson, and sailed it all over the world for a variety of programs. He had incredible stories, and took Zia & me down to tour it! I climbed to the top of the forward mast, something I’ve always wanted to try... but can’t imagine doing at sea!
What’s particularly awesome about the RTT is that she’s in a community trust to benefit Northland youth. She’s a working ship all summer—taking tourists out onto the Bay every day—but all the profits fund their youth development sailing program in the winter, offering week-long sail training experiences to children 13-18, designed to build confidence, leadership, and teamwork while teaching about the history, culture, and environment of the region. According to their website, “Over 90% of schools in the Far North are classified as Decile 1 or Decile 2 meaning they are the poorest communities in New Zealand. 100% of all donations go towards youth placements and your donation goes towards providing grants for students.” Donors can also sponsor a child, covering the entire cost for the one-week adventure. The program offers payment plans to help families out, with subsidized prices for local youth.
I can’t emphasize enough how much outdoor education really saved me when I was in foster care. There was no sailing in the area where my group homes were, but a program did take us to a horse stables where we could care for farm animals and learn to ride. It was incredibly therapeutic, just as I imagine this youth development sailing program is for similar kids here.
The annual tall ship race is next weekend, and I’m excited to see her and some other visiting tall ships fly across the Bay.
For more info on their programs or to donate, checkout their website! https://tucker.co.nz/