August 2026 Brendan Sailing Newsletter
A Message from the Chairman
As another incredible summer comes to a close, I am filled with gratitude for everyone who makes Brendan Sailing possible.
More than 40 years ago, Brendan Sailing was founded on the belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to discover their strengths, build confidence, and experience success. This summer, that vision came to life once again as we watched our campers overcome challenges, develop new skills, form lasting friendships, and gain confidence both on and off the water.
These moments would not be possible without the dedication of our outstanding instructors, volunteers, families, donors, and community partners. Your support creates opportunities that truly change lives and allows young people with learning differences to discover just how capable they are.
Thank you for believing in our mission and for being part of the Brendan Sailing family. Together, we are building confidence, one sailor at a time, and I look forward to seeing the impact we will continue to make in the years ahead.
Warm regards,
James P. Mulddon
Chairman, Brendan Sailing
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What an Incredible Summer—And the Excitement Isn’t Over Yet!
What happens when young people are given the opportunity to believe in themselves? This summer, we watched it happen every single day. Campers who arrived feeling uncertain left with new confidence, lifelong friendships, and the pride that comes from mastering new skills on the water. Thanks to our dedicated instructors, volunteers, families, and supporters, another unforgettable Brendan Sailing summer is in the books!
As we celebrate this incredible season, we’re also excited to share two wonderful fundraising opportunities that will help us continue changing lives. The Repass-Rodgers Foundation has generously offered a $10,000 Matching Gift Challenge, and an anonymous Brendan Sailing family has stepped forward with an additional $5,000 Matching Gift Challenge. Together, these matching gifts mean your support can go even further. You’ll find more information and donation links later in this newsletter.
We’re also honored to share that the Annapolis Yacht Club Foundation recently featured Brendan Sailing in their article, “An Incredible Gift,” highlighting the impact our programs have on youth with learning differences and the importance of making sailing accessible to everyone. We are deeply grateful for the Foundation’s continued partnership and invite you to read the article later in this newsletter.
If you’d like to relive this summer’s memories, be sure to visit the Photo Gallery on our website, where you’ll find highlights from all of our 2026 camp sessions. There’s nothing better than seeing the smiles, determination, and accomplishments of our incredible campers.
Finally, we’ve had many requests for Brendan Sailing apparel, and we’re excited to announce that our online StoutGear store is now open! Whether you’re a camper, family member, volunteer, instructor, or supporter, it’s a great way to show your Brendan Sailing pride. Look for the store link later in this newsletter.
Thank you for believing in our mission and for making another remarkable summer possible. Every camper who discovers confidence, independence, and a love for sailing does so because of this incredible community. We can’t wait to continue the journey with you.
Fair winds,
Jane Millman
Executive Director
Brendan Sailing
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$10,000 Repass-Rodgers Matching Gift
We are excited to share that Brendan Sailing has been awarded a $10,000 Matching Gift Challenge from the Repass-Rodgers Foundation, a longtime supporter of our mission.
To unlock the full $10,000 match, we must raise $10,000 from new donors and donors who have not contributed in the last two years by October 31.
If Brendan Sailing has made a difference in your child’s life, we hope you will consider making a gift or sharing this opportunity with family and friends.
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A Family’s Gratitude. Your Opportunity to Double Your Impact.
Inspired by the tremendous impact Brendan Sailing has had on their child over the years, an anonymous Brendan Sailing family has established a $5,000 Matching Gift Challenge through December 31, 2026.
Every donation made by year-end will count toward this match. First-time donors (or those who haven’t given in the past two years) will have their gifts applied to the Repass-Rodgers Foundation $10,000 Matching Gift Challenge first, helping Brendan Sailing maximize both matching opportunities.
Your generosity will help provide scholarships, train instructors, and create life-changing opportunity for youth with learning differences.
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AYCF article
We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of the Annapolis Yacht Club Foundation, one of Brendan Sailing’s valued community partners and grantors. Members of the AYCF Board joined us for a camper graduation this summer and recently shared a wonderful article highlighting the confidence, independence, and personal growth they witnessed firsthand. The article also features reflections from Brendan families and highlights the Brendan Approach® training provided to AYC Junior Sailing coaches.
We invite you to read “An Incredible Gift” and see the impact this partnership is helping make possible for young sailors in our community.
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Gear Order through Stoutgear online
Show your Brendan Sailing pride! Our online gear store is officially open, with Brendan Sailing apparel and gear for campers, families, alumni, and supporters. Orders are shipped directly to your home and make great holiday gifts.
The store closes September 21, 2026, so don’t wait!
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Boatshow volunteer sign-up
Volunteer with Brendan Sailing at the 2026 Boatshow this year!
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