2025 Goals
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Outreach and scholarships: Conduct more outreach and offer more scholarships to underserved communities.
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Upgrade fleet: We have an assortment of used vessels that are constantly being repaired hence, to better serve our novice and competitive boats, we need to standardize our fleet.
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Expanded dock: We are at capacity and need to add two additional floats to our dock to accommodate our growing program.
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Expanded staff: We operate with limited program staff and would benefit from more communications, coaching, and administrative support.
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Vehicle purchase: We have rented trucks to travel to regattas; by owning our own vehicle we would save both time and money.
Fundraising Events/Opportunities
Rowers, coaches, board members and booster parents all participate in productive fundraising efforts. An indoor Ergathon successfully raised money during the winter and spring months. Corporate donors are approached throughout the year with several supporters added this year. The need for boats and an extension to the docks are immediate needs. Our 1st annual MCRA Beer Fundraiser at Allagash Brewery in Portland held in August focused on a boat fund.
Giving Opportunities
Our program has grown, and the equipment is used extensively. The business community is being encouraged to partner with MCRA in our efforts to grow the programs that serve our communities. Sponsorship can be of a general nature or focused on various projects that are currently underway. A business could sponsor scholarships, the purchase of a new (to us) boat, boat truck, coaches launch, junior coach training and equipment reserve.
Volunteer Opportunities
All are welcome to donate time in helping us at our events, which includes the 22nd Annual Cow Island Regatta scheduled for September 2025. Support is also needed in boatyard maintenance and equipment repair. Anyone with a rowing background may also be interested in helping the coaching staff. We continue to grow our executive board and seek new members who are interested in fostering personal growth, building community and promoting health and fitness for people of all ages and abilities through outdoor athletics.
