Today is Giving Tuesday, a day set aside to remind us that, among this busy season of parties and shopping for gifts for friends and family, generosity comes in many forms. It also means that our annual regatta for charity, the AYC Birthday Regatta, is right around the corner – February 13-15, 2026! Registration will open soon for the regatta, but here is a sneak peek at the beneficiaries of the regatta for you to consider while you plan your year-end giving.
arizona sailing foundation (ASF)
The Arizona Sailing Foundation offers sailing classes and is the charity arm of AYC. ASF ‘s mission is to inspire a lifelong love of sailing by providing accessible, inclusive, and high-quality sailing instruction in Arizona to children and adults of all backgrounds. We welcome participants regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, and are committed to creating a safe and supportive space where everyone can build confidence, develop skills, foster teamwork, and enjoy the unique experience of sailing.
Blood cancer united
Blood Cancer United, formerly the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, has been involved with our Birthday Regatta for many years. BCU is on a mission to cure blood cancer and improve the quality of life of all patients and their families. Donations support BCU’s research, patient services, advocacy, public and professional education, and community services.
cancer support community arizona
Written by Maryellen Ferring:
The Cancer Support Community Arizona is a small local organization that makes a big impression on the lives of people dealing with the devastating effects of cancer. I’m volunteering there and see close-up how they help with an array of no-cost services from support groups and counseling to art and exercise classes. Join Mike and me in contributing to help this tiny group continue to punch above its weight. And here’s a little incentive. If you’re able to raise $250 or more, I’ll award you a SeaBags bucket bag.
soldier’s best friend
Soldier’s Best Friend provides U.S. military veterans living with combat-related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) with Service or Therapeutic Companion Dogs, most of which are rescued from local shelters. The veteran and dog train together to build a trusting relationship that touches two lives at once.
arizona state university sailing club
Sailing at ASU is a sailing club open to people with all levels of experience. You’ll see them sailing FJs on Tempe Town Lake, and they often participate in AYC activities, both on land and on the water. Your donation will help them compete in collegiate regattas in California, Hawaii and the Pacific Northwest. They are the future of AYC – and the future looks bright!
There will be more opportunities to support these charities at the regatta; until then, thank you for your generosity!
