To all the moms, mother figures, grandmas, aunties, and women who lift us up—Happy Mother’s Day.
At Shake-A-Leg Miami, we know the power of a mother’s love. We see it every day in the quiet moments—when a mom steadies a child as they take their first step onto a boat, cheers them on as they conquer their fears on the water, or simply sits with them under the sun, just being present.
Mothers are often the first to believe in what’s possible, even when the road ahead is uncertain. They are the anchor in rough seas and the wind in our sails when we’re ready to soar.
This Mother’s Day, we want to say thank you! Thank you to the moms who wake up early to get here, who bring snacks, sunscreen, and patience. Thank you to the ones who sit through long practices, and to those who entrust us with your children—we don’t take that lightly.
You remind us of what this work is truly about: building a world where everyone feels safe, seen, and celebrated. Because when a mother believes in you, you start to believe in yourself, too.
So today, and every day, we honor you.
With love and gratitude,
Harry, Shake-A-Leg Miami Team & Board of Directors
🌞 Let’s Finish Strong – Your Gift Can Still Go Twice As Far!
Summer is right around the corner, and Shake-A-Leg Miami is getting ready to welcome hundreds of eager young adventurers to Biscayne Bay. Thanks to the generosity of supporters like you, so many children—especially those living with disabilities or from low-income families—will get to experience a summer full of discovery, friendship, and joy.
We’re incredibly grateful for every gift we’ve received so far. You've already helped us take huge steps toward our goal. But we're not there yet—and we still need your help.
The Batchelor Foundation is matching your donations to help us get the maximum award of $165,000! That means every dollar you give now will be doubled, helping even more children attend camp through full scholarships.
Your continued support can make all the difference in reaching this match and ensuring no child is left behind.
Why It Matters:
💙 Last summer, we awarded $581,000 in camp scholarships to 210 children.
🚤 600 youth were introduced to boating and marine life through our Outreach Program.
🌟 291 teen peer mentors were trained to lead and support their fellow campers.
⛵ Campers enjoyed 58,000+ hours of inclusive summer fun—from sailing and kayaking to marine science, art, and more.
This summer, we want to do even more, but we can’t do it without you.
Your gift today will help a child discover new abilities, build confidence, and feel a sense of belonging—all while exploring the magic of the ocean.
On Saturday, April 27th, the shores of Coconut Grove came alive with laughter, sunshine, and a sense of true inclusion. Autism Bay Day was more than just an event—it was a beautiful reminder of what happens when a community comes together with open hearts and open arms.
Families from all across South Florida joined us at Shake-A-Leg Miami for a day of connection, adventure, and joy on the water. Children and adults with autism experienced sailing, kayaking, powerboating, and interactive sensory activities—all designed to meet them where they are, in a space that felt safe, welcoming, and empowering.
The smiles said it all.
We’re deeply grateful to every family who came out, to our volunteers who gave their time with such heart, and to our partners who help make these days possible. These moments are why we do what we do: to create spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, can feel the freedom of the bay and the warmth of community.
To see the day in action and hear from some of the families who joined us, check out the CBS Miami feature on AutismBay Day:
Thank you for being part of our mission. Together, we sail further.
Celebrating Strength, Connection, and Possibility
A Day on the Bay with Our Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Laughter floated across the marina, sunlight danced on the water, and the spirit of connection was everywhere you turned. On April 13th, our docks came alive as Shake-A-Leg Miami welcomed individuals living with spinal cord injuries and their families for a Bay Day full of energy, joy, and shared experiences.
Our Spinal Cord Injury Day on the bay was more than a fun outing. It was a celebration of strength. With support from the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation, we created a space where guests could sail, kayak, relax, and connect in a way that honored their journeys and encouraged new ones.
Boats launched. Conversations flowed. New friendships formed. And everywhere, there was a sense of freedom—on the water and in the company of others who understand the power of community.
There’s something uniquely healing about being on the Bay. This day reminded us all that life after injury can still be filled with movement, purpose, and joy. When people come together with open hearts, possibility leads the way.
To everyone who joined us—thank you for making this day what it was. And to the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation—thank you for helping us turn belief into action, and inclusion into something you can feel.
Here’s to more Bay Days ahead—full of courage, connection, and the kind of moments that stay with us long after the sails come down.
Ongoing Programs at Shake-A-Leg Miami
🚢We Can Sail –
Adaptive Sailing for All Experience the freedom of sailing! Our adaptive program empowers individuals with disabilities to learn, connect, and thrive on the water with expert instructors and high school mentors. - Last sesion is on May 17
🌊 Marine Academy Summer Camp (Ages 5–18) From June 9 – August 2, campers will dive into sailing, powerboating, marine science, and hands-on STEM activities while learning teamwork and water safety. Scholarships available!
🏝️ Adventure Island Camp
(Ages 6–15) A summer of outdoor exploration! Campers will kayak, fish, snorkel, and discover nature on a pristine island, blending adventure with science and creativity.
⚓ Marine & Hospitality
Vocational Program Gain hands-on experience in boating operations, navigation, hospitality, and event management. Build skills for a career on the water or in the service industry.
🤝 Become a Mentor –
Make an Impact Guide and inspire young participants as they navigate our sailing and leadership programs. A rewarding way to give back and grow!
⛵ ASA Way – Learn to Sail with the American Sailing Association
Join us for a hands-on sailing experience that follows the esteemed American Sailing Association (ASA) curriculum! Our program offers the perfect introduction to the world of sailing, providing foundational skills and knowledge in a fun, supportive environment. The program is offered on Saturdays.
🎣 SCI Fishing Team – Open to All with Spinal Cord Injuries
Join our SCI Fishing Team, an inclusive program designed for individuals with spinal cord injuries, regardless of the level of injury. Experience the thrill of fishing, connect with fellow anglers, and enjoy the great outdoors in a supportive environment. Limited spots available, sign up today!
🎣 Veterans Fishing Program – Thursdays at 10 AM
A weekly outing where veterans come together to enjoy a peaceful day of fishing, build meaningful connections with fellow service members, share stories, and unwind in a supportive and calming environment out on the water.
Upcoming Events
What’s next?!
- Bay Day + Sunday Social - May 18th
- St Theresa Fishing Tournament - May 17th
- Veterans Group Fishing Tournament - May 24th
- Summer Camp – June 9th
Join us for these exciting events on the water! ⛵🌊
Closing Comments
As we wrap up this edition of our newsletter, we want to take a moment to thank you. Whether you're a volunteer, participant, donor, staff member, or one of our incredible community supporters, you are the reason our mission continues to grow and thrive.
Every time you show up — whether it’s lending a hand, sharing a kind word, or simply believing in what we do — you help us create a more inclusive, empowering, and joyful space for everyone who comes through our doors. You remind us that change doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens when we come together.
Looking ahead, there’s so much to be excited about. From our upcoming events to new programs taking shape, the future is bright, and we’re thrilled to have you on this journey with us. We hope this newsletter has kept you informed and inspired. As always, we welcome your thoughts, stories, and ideas.
Thank you for being part of our family. Let’s keep making waves together.
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