CHARTING A NEW COURSE FOR YOUTH
At Youth Marine Foundation, we believe real change starts on the water. Since 1992, we've helped young people discover their potential through hands-on maritime experiences that inspire curiosity, confidence, and purpose.
Aboard our 110-foot training vessel, the Doolin-Rogers, students explore Puget Sound’s marine ecosystems, connect with mentors, and gain real-world skills that lead to living-wage careers in an industry hungry for new talent.
Whether it's a middle schooler discovering marine science for the first time or a young adult earning credentials toward a maritime career, we’re here to open doors — to opportunity, to community, and to a brighter future on the water.
OUR MISSION Provide hands-on training to introduce and prepare young people for careers in the maritime industry.
OUR VISION We foster leadership skills, promote character development, and create pathways for success.
OUR CORE VALUES
Community Stewardship
We cultivate pride, responsibility, and a sense of belonging by encouraging youth to become active stewards of their maritime community.
Respect for Water and the Environment We instill a deep appreciation for the marine ecosystem and promote lifelong environmental responsibility through hands-on learning on the water.
Safety and Inclusion We are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space where every young person feels supported, seen, and empowered to thrive.
Leadership and Personal Growth
We provide transformative opportunities for youth to develop leadership, confidence, and character through real-world challenges and mentorship.
Pathways to Purpose
We equip young people with the practical skills, industry insight, and professional connections they need to pursue meaningful, career-track roles in the maritime field.
TICKETS: $100 PER PERSON
FOLLOW THIS LINK TO PURCHASE TICKETS: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/theyouthmarinefoundation/event/httpssecureqgivcomfortheyouthmarinefoundationevent/
Join us for an inspiring evening as we celebrate the impact of maritime mentorship and honor the volunteers, partners, and youth who keep our mission afloat. This year’s theme, Lighting the Way, reflects our commitment to guiding young people toward opportunity—on the water and into the workforce.
We’re thrilled to welcome Rod Koon as our guest speaker. A longtime Port of Tacoma leader and author of Port of Tacoma (Arcadia Publishing, 2023), Rod brings decades of maritime insight and a deep love for local history. His stories connect our past to our future—and remind us why this work matters.
Why Attend?
Celebrate the success of our Sea Scouts mentorship program and the long-standing partnerships we've shared with schools across Pierce, King, and Thurston Counties—relationships that have, for years, opened pathways for students to experience the Puget Sound and discover the maritime world.
Enjoy a lively talk with the Port of Tacoma’s own storyteller, Rod Koon!
Support expanded access to vessel-based maritime training—an urgent need in today’s workforce and the launch of our new workforce initiative - the Seamanship Readiness Program.
Enjoy good company, great food, and a shared mission