Able Sail Toronto (AST) is a sailing club for people with physical disabilities based out of National Yacht Club in the Toronto Harbour. We sail in Humber Bay, Toronto, Ontario.
Sailing, as a sport for people living with disabilities, is unique in its versatility; it is easily adapted to the abilities of the sailor. Thanks to specially designed sailboats and a variety of adaptive equipment, sailing can be accessible even for those experiencing a high level of mobility impairment. Approximately 80% of our members are in wheelchairs, including paraplegics and quadriplegics. 62% of those have higher level disabilities and require adaptations to sail.
Able Sail Toronto is run and managed by people with disabilities for people with disabilities. We firmly believe that people living with disabilities are the best positioned to know the needs and desires of people experiencing disability. AST delivers programming with a person-centered approach; we do our best to adapt to the needs and goals of each participant, so they get the most value for their time and effort. AST also builds community among members.
How can your help support people with disabilities?
This fund will enable sailors who have physical disabilities opportunities and life experiences that are transformative. It will support an ambitious and well-designed sport development program that is always delivered with a splash of fun!
Able Sail Toronto depends on the support of private, public and corporate donations. We recognize that disability is expensive, and that nearly 30% of Canadians with disabilities live below the poverty line, according to Statistics Canada. We do not want finances to be a barrier to participation. Membership and sailing fees are set below cost of operations to ensure finances are not a barrier to participation.
Funds donated are used to purchase and maintain the adapted sailboats and adaptive equipment like a windlass, autohelm or sip ‘n puff system. Funds are also used to subsize sailing fees.
Thank you for your support!