Inspiring a Love of Boating

Growing Skills, Confidence & Community Through Education

Mission

The Rhode Island Yacht Club Educational Foundation (RIYCEF) founded 1998, is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization that fuels a love of boating through education, training, and community programs. We sponsor public seminars, open lectures, and support RIYC members’ children, grandchildren, and Junior members by funding sailing and boating education opportunities.

Our purpose is to:

  • Encourage and further boating and yachting through education, training, and activities that increase participation, knowledge, and community support.

  • Promote safe boating for all ages.

  • Foster boating events that advance these goals.

  • Cooperate with public and private marine organizations to expand educational funding for youth and adult programs, scholarships, and marine experiences.

  • Solicit and receive donations, contributions, and grants to accomplish the above.

We are non-profit, non-political, and non-sectarian; no net earnings benefit any incorporator or director.

We offer two core program areas:

Public Events, Lectures & Educational Classes

Seminars on boating safety, navigation, weather, maritime history, and more. Many are free and open to the community.

Explore Events

Youth Educational Tuition Program

Tuition reimbursement and funding assistance for sailing and boating-related education for RIYC youths.

Find Out How

Big Ideas,
Real Impact.

We are a separate nonprofit from the Rhode Island Yacht Club and rely entirely on generous community support to expand public programming and tuition reimbursements.

PLEASE DONATE

Please Consider a Gift – Your Donation Makes an Impact.

DONATE

Here’s how your support helps:

  • Where most needed — fuels our general programs and lets us respond to urgent needs.

  • Youth Tuition Reimbursement Program — helps cover course fees for youth to attend boating-related classes, supporting the next generation of safe boaters.

  • Public Events, Lectures & Classes — supports community seminars, expert speakers, and class materials.

  • RIYCEF Endowment — builds long-term stability so we can keep teaching, training, and inspiring future generations.

Other Ways You Can Help:

  • Volunteer at events and classes

  • Partner with us for community outreach or sponsorship

  • Corporate giving and legacy gifts