Inspire the next generation of maritime leaders and environmental stewards — through accredited education, workforce readiness, and employer-connected programs.
"Inspire the next generation of maritime leaders and environmental stewards."
Captain Sandy's Charities takes an education-first approach to building the maritime workforce pipeline. We partner with accredited curriculum developers to deliver free, standards-aligned K–12 programs that build ocean literacy, environmental stewardship, and awareness of maritime career pathways.
Our programs reach classrooms across Florida through partnerships with school districts, career academies, and workforce organizations — connecting students' interests and skills to real career opportunities on the water and on shore.
Free, fully accredited K–12 curriculum delivered through school partnerships statewide, building ocean literacy and STEM skills from elementary through high school.
Connecting classroom learning to career pathways through training programs, apprenticeships, certifications, and employer partnerships across Florida's maritime industry.
Fostering ocean conservation awareness and sustainable practices through curriculum that connects students to marine ecosystems and environmental responsibility.
Supporting holistic well-being through programs like Waves of Wellness that promote mental health, physical fitness, and community connection.
Accredited, standards-aligned programs delivered free to Florida classrooms through partnerships with YMI and school districts.
Digital platforms and employer connections that bridge education to maritime career pathways and industry opportunities.
Collaborations with maritime companies, training providers, and workforce organizations to create employment pipelines.
Building awareness of marine ecosystems, conservation science, and the role of the ocean in global economy and climate.
Measurable outcomes across education, workforce development, and wellness programs that benefit Florida communities.
Supporting mental health, physical well-being, and community connection through the Waves of Wellness initiative.
Captain Sandy Yawn is a veteran yacht captain with over 30 years of experience navigating the world's oceans. Known to millions as the captain on Bravo's Below Deck Mediterranean, she has leveraged her platform to advocate for maritime education and workforce development.
Throughout her career, Captain Sandy has witnessed firsthand the growing workforce gap in the maritime industry — from skilled trades to bridge officers. She founded Captain Sandy's Charities to address this gap at its root: education.
Under her leadership, the organization has grown from a single program concept into a multi-program nonprofit reaching 1.7 million students, teachers, and families across Florida. The focus remains institutional: building scalable, accredited education pipelines that connect young people to maritime career pathways.
Captain Sandy's role as founder and president provides strategic vision and industry credibility, while the organization's operations, partnerships, and program delivery are led by a dedicated professional team.
Measurable outcomes from our education programs delivered across Florida schools in the 2024–2025 cycle.
100% of participating educators expressed a desire for more programs of this nature.
A structured education pipeline that builds awareness, skills, and career readiness — from elementary through high school and into the workforce.
Introduce students to the ocean as a workplace and maritime as a career field through age-appropriate, engaging activities.
Deliver accredited, standards-aligned K–12 curriculum developed with Young Minds Inspired (YMI) covering STEM, ELA, and Geography.
Connect classroom learning to real-world career pathways through employer spotlights, career events, and digital career platforms.
Bridge the gap between education and employment through industry partnerships, credentials awareness, and apprenticeship pathways.
Young Minds Inspired (YMI) — nationally recognized developer of accredited K–12 instructional resources.
All programs aligned to Florida state standards including STEM, ELA, and Geography frameworks.
We are committed to transparent operations, measurable impact, and responsible stewardship of every dollar entrusted to our mission.
Fully registered tax-exempt nonprofit organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Governed by a board with expertise spanning maritime operations, education, healthcare, and workforce development.
Regular impact measurement, annual reporting, and Form 990 filings ensure full accountability and compliance.
Every dollar supports education programs, curriculum development, and workforce readiness initiatives. No funds are used for personal benefit.
Explore our accredited education programs or support our mission to build the next generation of maritime leaders.
