The Boothbay Sea and Science Center (BSSC) is pleased to announce that they are the featured local nonprofit community organization for the month of April at the Boothbay Harbor branch office of the Bath Savings Institution. BSSC is honored to have been chosen by the bank and is most appreciative to Bath Savings Institution for its ongoing support.

The Bath Savings Bank and BSSC invites you to visit the bank’s lobby not only to learn more about the center’s community sea and science programs, but also to enjoy the center’s display featuring one of the rowing/sailing dinghies used in their program and numerous photographs of Maine and summering youth who attended the center during summer 2014.

The mission of the Boothbay Sea and Science Center is the advancement of sailing, boating and ocean sciences by minimizing economic and physical obstacles and further to develop independence, self-confidence, teamwork and volunteerism in the participants. To inspire individuals to strengthen themselves and their community through the enjoyment of the sea.

This winter season saw the BSSC Program Committee hard at work developing experiential Sea and Science Programs for Maine and summering youth ages 5 -17. Working with Dan Miller at Ocean Point Marina, Dr. Nicole Poulton at Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, Rachael Miller of the Rozalia Project, Bruce Washburn at Washburn & Doughty, Ed Roberts at Hodgdon Yachts, Elaine Jones at the DMR, Nat Wilson at Nathaniel S. Wilson Sailmaker and Eric Graves at Boothbay Harbor Shipyard (to name a few) the committee has been developing hands-on boating, sailing and ocean science programs.

“This summer the center will offer all-hands on immersion programs for participants in both sailing and science, allowing students to gain a deeper appreciation for the sea — all while having fun,” said Dr. Nicole Poulton of Bigelow Laboratory and chairman of the BSSC Sea and Science Program Committee.

BSSC’s vision is to provide a community Sea and Science education center that offers affordable access to waterfront activities for Maine and summering youth through sailing and boating programs and experiential learning activities not typically provided by other regional organizations. BSSC prides itself on being committed to community and it stands behind its promise that no child is left sitting on the dock. BSSC’s efforts are centered on giving Maine and summering youth the opportunity to sail, learn boating safety and develop an understanding and appreciation of the delicate balance at work in the powerful ocean that surrounds us.

A $250 donation to the BSSC Financial Assistance Program makes it possible for a child age 5-9 to participate in the BSSC’s Mizzen/Budding Scientists Program for one week this summer. A $500 donation enables a youth age 10-17 to attend BSSC’s Stay’s’l/Top’s’l/Emerging Oceanographers Program for two weeks.

For more information about making a donation to the BSSC Financial Assistance Program, visit the BSSC display at the bank, email info@boothbayseaandsciencecenter.org or call BSSC Board President Pauline Dion at 207-350-5357.

To learn more about BSSC, visit the BSSC website at www.boothbayseaandsciencecenter.org and like BSSC on Facebook!

To learn more about how you can donate a boat and/or science equipment in good working condition, Pauline Dion at 207-350-5357. Also, check out BSSC’s “Wish List” on its website.