After seven months of vigorous construction, Take the Helm, a boat-building program designed to engage high school students with hands-on skills and a sense of community, set sail on “Inspiration.”
These students learned how to study building plans, assemble parts, and even learned a few life lessons along the way.
Jim Fodrie, the chief builder at Take the Helm, has been part of the YMCA of the Chesapeake for over ten years. “We’re building kids,” he said when asked about the program. His woodworking experience started in middle school shop classes. A genuine connection lies between himself and Take the Helm.
Adam Hollis, program director, was initially a YMCA camper. Now, he has a full time career with the Easton YMCA.
Take the Helm hopes to grow diversity in Talbot County. The program is open to all high school students in grades nine to twelve. Take the Helm is a free program for all participants. Congratulations to all who were involved with Take the Helm. Safe sailing!
This video is approximately one minute in length. For more information about “Take the Helm” please go here.
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