While the weather wasn’t favorable for its planned regatta, the rain and overly gusty winds did not in the least diminish the spirit of the participants and supporters of YSF Community Sailing Vero Beach (new name), who gathered at the Quail Valley River Club for their annual Rock the Boat fundraiser.
Proceeds from the evening, which included dinner, entertainment and a live auction, will help fund the educational, recreational and competitive sailing programs of the nonprofit. Founded in 2009 by Charlie and Chris Pope and Varoujan “Pops” Karentz to provide free beginner sailing instruction to local children, YSF has since expanded to include all ages, abilities and skill levels.
The YSF roster of more than 300 youngsters mirrors our community’s diverse demographics, with about half coming from underserved families, some 40 homeless children, and about 35 special needs sailors…