Purpose & Philanthropy
Across the world, YCA members give back every day through meaningful acts of service, generosity, and connection with the people and places that welcome us. The nonprofits below, each founded by YCA members, turn that spirit into action by supporting island communities, empowering kids to chase their dreams, and protecting our oceans through research and conservation. Explore their work, support their missions, and find your own way to give back along the journey.
First Wave Response
Rapid disaster response by sea, bridging the critical gap before larger agencies arrive.
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In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, our co-founders helped lead the mission known as Operation Cruisers Aid. This collaborative effort demonstrated the incredible power and agility of a coordinated maritime response, proving that a volunteer fleet from across the Caribbean can be underway within hours of a storm’s landfall.
In total, 65 cruising sailboats and vessels from 7 countries, 2 continents, were bridging the critical gap before larger agencies could mobilize—bringing immediate lifesaving relief to communities cut off from traditional aid routes, and reporting back disaster needs assessments and intelligence to government and intergovernmental agencies.
Ready to make a real impact summer 2027. -
Flexible, expert advice when you need it. Book hourly support across a range of topics—from planning to problem-solving. This focused consultation will help clarify your goals, map out next steps, and identify opportunities for growth.
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Join a growing network of sailors, maritime professionals, Caribbean partners, and donors who are reshaping what early disaster relief can look like. Whether you bring a vessel, local knowledge, operational partnership, or financial support, you become part of a self-sufficient humanitarian force that reaches communities when it matters most. Together, we can close the early-response gap and strengthen resilience across regions in need. Learn more…
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Sail-powered Science, Exploration & Storytelling
We are an expedition vessel, with a skilled crew supporting marine science, conservation and storytelling in remote and ecologically critical environments.
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Ocean Roamer was an idea born at sea by two sailors who wanted to do more.
Led by husband and wife duo, Alexis and Charlie, their story began four years ago when they met underwater freediving in the Canary Islands.
Bound together by a deep passion for the ocean they decided to bring together their combined skills in science, exploration and communication to build a platform that can drive real world change.
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Ocean Roamer Ltd. Capital Office, 124 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX
Email: hello@oceanroamer.com
Based at sea. 12 months of the year.
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The Chasing Bubbles Foundation
Empowering kids to dream bigger, live bolder, and chase their own bubbles in life — just like Captain Alex did.
What began as one man’s dream has grown into a global community of dreamers, working together to help kids dream big and chase their own horizons.
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The Chasing Bubbles Foundation (CBF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit carrying Alex’s dream forward.
Today, S/V Bubbles sails again — island to island, regatta to regatta — as a floating classroom and a symbol of possibility. Through youth sailing programs, community events, and adventurous fundraisers, we empower kids to see the ocean of opportunity in front of them and believe that anything is possible.
This foundation is run by Alex’s brother, Joe Rust, and their board of directors that is largely comprised of members of their family.
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Chasing Bubbles Foundation
8256 North Base Road
Seymour, IN 47274
captain@chasingbubbles.org -
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