Wishing you smooth sailing and happy holidays from Shake-A-Leg Miami!
As we sail into the holidays and the close of the year, we take a moment to pause, reflect, and say thank you. As the giving season surrounds us, we want to express how grateful we are to each of you who have been part of Shake-A-Leg Miami’s journey this year. Your support, involvement, and belief in our mission made 2025 a truly meaningful and impactful year. We simply could not have done it without you.
From programs on the water to community events and special moments of connection, Shake-A-Leg Miami was buzzing with activity. We invite you to read on below to learn more about what we have accomplished together during these past weeks.
As we set sail into 2026, we do so with excitement, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to creating inclusive opportunities for all. From all of us atShake-A-Leg Miami, we wish you a joyful holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year.
The holiday season truly came alive on December 6 during the Holtz Children’s Hospital Boat Parade. Shake-A-Leg Miami proudly joined this festive tradition, decorating our boats and spreading joy along the water. The parade brought smiles, laughter, and holiday cheer to children and families during what can be a challenging time of year.
Being part of an event that lifts spirits and supports young patients was incredibly meaningful for our team and volunteers. It reminded us how powerful simple moments of joy and celebration can be, especially when shared as a community.
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Army vs. Navy
Watch Party
We closed out our December events with an Army vs. Navy Watch Party that brought our community together for a fun and relaxed gathering. Participants, families, and staff enjoyed the game while sharing food, conversation, and friendly rivalry. Events like these create space for connection beyond the water.
M32s Kick Off
Regatta Season!
November also marked the exciting kickoff of regatta season with the return of the M32 fleet to Biscayne Bay. These high-performance boats brought renewed energy to our docks and set the stage for an action-packed season ahead. Shake-A-Leg Miami was proud to be the Winter home for the M32 season and their World Campionships.
Some of the world best sellers compete in the M32 race series. Their passion commitment and teamwork so that's an example for all of us to follow. We congratulate Ryan McKillen and his team aboard surge for their victory and all members of this series who competed.
The start of the season highlighted the power of collaboration between competitive sailing and inclusive programming. Seeing athletes, volunteers, and participants share the water reinforced our commitment to making sailing accessible to everyone, without limits.
University of Miami
Photo Gallery Event
On December 4, Shake-A-Leg Miami was honored to participate in the University of Miami Photo Gallery Event, an evening dedicated to storytelling through powerful imagery. The exhibit captured meaningful moments that reflect resilience, inclusion, and the transformative impact of adaptive recreation. It was a unique opportunity to share our mission through a creative and visual lens.
Microsoft
Team Building Day
On December 9, 2025, Shake-A-Leg Miami was thrilled to welcome a team from Microsoft, led by board member Nicole Denil, for a joyful “Microsoft Day of Care” at our campus. The day was filled with creativity and connection as the Microsoft team partnered with our Marine Vocational students to make music and build instruments together, an experience that brought smiles, laughter, and lasting memories.
Our students were deeply grateful for the generous donation of musical instruments, which will continue to inspire creativity well beyond the day’s activities. Although rain kept the team off the water and postponed kayaking and a beach cleanup, the visiting team, many traveling from across the country enjoyed learning about Biscayne Bay and Miami’s stunning shoreline.
We are always delighted to welcome Microsoft to Shake-A-Leg Miami and grateful for their continued support, generosity, and innovative spirit.
Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest
Boat Parade
Shake-A-Leg Miami believes the water has powerful healing qualities. Participating in the Winterfest Boat Parade, aboard the Britto Art Boat, allows us to celebrate those qualities while joining a caring and vibrant marine community. In partnership with Holtz Children’s Hospital, we provide free access to the water for people with disabilities, wounded veterans, and disadvantaged children all year long, inviting them to discover the confidence, joy, and healing that come from being on the water.
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Holiday Party
Working together with the Spinal Cord Injury Support Group, Shake-A-Leg Miami is proud to expand access to on the water experiences, along with quarterly gatherings where members can come together for a day of fun, friendship, and connection on Biscayne Bay.
SCISG provides a vital service for people living with spinal cord injuries and their families. The group is an invaluable resource, especially for individuals who are newly injured, offering real world support, shared experiences, and guidance from others who understand the journey.
We Can Sail
New Dates Available
New dates are now open for our WCS program, offering participants the opportunity to get out on the water and build skills in a supportive and inclusive environment. Join us and experience the joy of sailing firsthand.
Our Marine & Hospitality Vocational Program is now welcoming new participants and provides meaningful, hands-on experiences that promote confidence, teamwork, and personal growth.
Our Adaptive Fishing program for Veterans takes place every Thursday, providing a relaxing and supportive space to enjoy time on the water. This program promotes connection, well-being, and camaraderie through shared fishing experiences.
Our team building and community service opportunities are perfect for groups looking to connect, give back, and grow together. These experiences combine purpose-driven activities with the unique setting of Biscayne Bay. Apply now!
Seaworthy offers engaging, skill-building sessions that focus on maritime knowledge, safety, and teamwork both on land and on the water. This program empowers high school participants through education and real-world experience.
December 26–30 – Orange Bowl International Youth Regatta: Shake-A-Leg Miami supports inclusive sailing by providing access and assistance for sailors with disabilities during this major regatta.
January 5–10 – M32 winter series: A weekend of racing. With 10 boats participating.
January 17 – Kamp Kangaroo Camp: A special camp day offering inclusive recreational and learning experiences for children of all abilities.
January 16–18 – Sea Scout Ship 144 Regatta: Shake-A-Leg Miami supported youth leadership and seamanship by hosting and assisting Sea Scout Ship 144 during their regatta
A Heartfelt
Thank You!
As we close out 2025, thank you for being part of the Shake-A-Leg Miami family. This year brought powerful moments on and off the water, and your support made them possible. Whether you volunteered, donated, partnered with us, or simply cheered us on, you helped create more access, confidence, and joy for people of all abilities.
As we head into 2026, we’re excited for what’s next: new programs, bigger goals, and an even stronger commitment to inclusion on Biscayne Bay. If you’d like to end the year with a final act of impact, please consider making a year-end donation today. Every gift helps us get more participants on the water, expand adaptive opportunities, and keep these experiences safe and accessible for all.
From all of us at Shake-A-Leg Miami, happy holidays, and thank you for sailing alongside us. We can’t wait to see you back on the bay in 2026.