Fundraising for Boating Safety

Marco Island Sail and Power Squadron may have changed their name a few years ago to America’s Boating Club, but its goals have remained the same: boating and safety on the water. That common interest has them strongly promote that safety through robust educational offerings to its members, whether they own a boat or not, recognizing the need to educate the many mariners who choose to belong to boating clubs across the nation. 

The Marco organization has been around since 1979 and boasts a membership of over 100 members and supporters who were present at their annual Wine and Hors d’oeuvre fundraising event held at the Parish Hall of the San Marco Catholic Church last Friday evening, January 31. 

Those who attended were treated to delicious food from members, the Carvelli Group and Phelan Family Brands, as well as ice-cold refreshments as part of the cost of their admission to the event. They gathered around the tables which provided bidders with numerous donations to the cause of boating safety and even travel opportunities.  

Most would stay throughout the evening to visit with friends and fellow boaters as the excitement built for the $250 door prize that was part of their admission tickets. There were silent auctions, raffles and a 50/50 drawing. 

America’s Boating Club offers free vessel checks for all boaters as well as nationally recognized boating safety courses for its members. In addition to that service, they also organize boat trips and raft-ups, and a monthly dinner meeting with guest speakers is arranged during the season. 

The organization also maintains its own learning center on the island in the Chamber of Commerce Plaza, where specialty training classes are offered to members. You may learn more about the organization by visiting www.marcoboatingclub.org.