tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60453812216999743262024-02-06T21:23:26.749-08:00Seafaring Opportunities For Those In NeedSoftin is a 501c3 nonprofit organization
Our Mission:
With funding from the public, SOFTIN enables the disabled, builds self-esteem in the physically and mentally impaired, helps victims of abuse overcome trauma, assists elderly in living fuller lives, educates children and teaches troubled youth the values of nature, conservation and community spirit... all through unique and tailored at-sea learning/research experiences.Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-43155440085294875092010-04-16T18:27:00.000-07:002010-04-16T18:32:31.044-07:00SOFTIN partners with CALM to give abused families a happy adventure<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwBEkI5UJUQ0Ed-YmokbcgWY8V0VJ6_bfXl-kNJjTTDFSF6my3tU3rb6GoOehy8ECXl7lTVJAfbFdvGsCbWwkdSergthIbiOk_NgQkF5Ed6sQLSRRKhMvUalqgGBXkdxAPNZSOTo27rKRy/s1600/04-15-10+043.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwBEkI5UJUQ0Ed-YmokbcgWY8V0VJ6_bfXl-kNJjTTDFSF6my3tU3rb6GoOehy8ECXl7lTVJAfbFdvGsCbWwkdSergthIbiOk_NgQkF5Ed6sQLSRRKhMvUalqgGBXkdxAPNZSOTo27rKRy/s320/04-15-10+043.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460913065760402050" /></a><br />Last evening, SOFTIN along with our collaborative partner Child Abuse Listening & Mediation (CALM) and Capt. Jason Diamond the owner of the vessel, Stardust, provided a much-needed seagoing adventure for nearly forty battered/abused children and moms. These families live daily with abusive situations that seem like nightmares, so it gave us a powerful sense of accomplishment to give them an opportunity to learn, interact with nature and just have some good clean fun. <br /><br />The kids’ faced lit up when they came aboard and spread out around the beautiful vessel. All the sights and sounds were new and exciting and the kids went into “learn and have fun” mode in a supervised environment, allowing the moms to relax and enjoy the outing themselves. SOFTIN staff and Board of Director members, CALM therapists and the crew of the Stardust went into teach mode, pointing out interesting things about the waterfront, the sea and the critters of the sea and sea shore. <br /><br />The happy group saw seagulls, night herons, brown pelicans, cormorants, egrets, harbor seals and sea lions. While we were out the kids caught and released a good number of fish, allowing us to teach first-hand lessons about resource management, water quality management and marine debris prevention.<br /><br />We cruised back into the harbor as the sun set. As the smiling kids and appreciative moms disembarked, thanking us profusely, we volunteers were left with a feeling that we really helped some kids gain experiences their lives were lacking and we gave the moms a shared experience they can talk with their kids about to help them through rough times ahead as they try to improve their lives. We helped and it felt great!<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.org<br /><br />PS: We at SOFTIN are always looking for more collaborative partners to team up with to serve special-needs people.Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-39761359328583830032010-03-12T08:57:00.000-08:002010-03-12T08:59:35.594-08:00SOFTIN offers edu-adventures during Santa Barbara Sea FestivalSanta Barbara is having a Sea Festival (www.sbseafestival.com) May 1st through the 15th and SOFTIN is offering educational adventures for special-needs people (okay to bring a caregiver if needed). Here is the schedule:<br /><br />SOFTIN<br />Tue. May 4th (3:30pm until 5:00pm)<br />Thu. May 6th (3:30pm until 5:00pm)<br />Mon. May 10th (3:30pm until 5:00pm)<br />Wed. May 12th (3:30pm until 5:00pm)<br />SOFTIN, Inc. (www.softininc.org), a local nonprofit, provides free at-sea educational adventures… teaching enabling life skills and sense of self-esteem… to special needs people (disabled, impaired, victims of abuse, frail elderly and youth-at-risk). Okay to bring a caregiver for those who need one. To join in on an adventure, contact Capt. Tiffany Vague at: tvague@softininc.org<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.orgSeafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-32226201884780285162010-02-24T05:24:00.000-08:002010-02-24T05:32:09.607-08:00SOFTIN website gets updatesSOFTIN's website www.softininc.org has a new look and features. Check out the page about our upcoming car show fundraiser at the WWII Air Museum in Camarillo, Ca., and also check out the page on Bentwing, our hero brown pelican. Let us know what you think and how you can help drive our mission.<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.org<br /><br />PS: Will you or your company be a sponsor of our car show in July? Contact Capt. Tiffany at tvague@softininc.orgSeafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-50787618616945865022010-02-01T09:13:00.000-08:002010-02-01T09:17:22.157-08:00A heartwarming SOFTIN memory to shareIt is such a special treat to meet past SOFTIN passengers and listen to their memories. We had such a moment this past weekend while hosting a family yard sale at my home. A grandmotherly type with three kids in tow came walked up the driveway. I had a table set up with fishing gear for sale. The three kids (ages 7 to 13) stopped at the table to admire the fishing lures while the grandma walked on to look at clothes and household items. One kid said, “I’ve been on a boat. Do you know the ‘What-up’ birds?” <br /><br />That question about floored me, since the What-up birds are a pair of seagulls who adopted the SOFTIN boat, WaveWalker and visit us every time we come back to harbor. If these kids met our pals the What-up birds, it had to have happened aboard our boat. So I replied, “Yes, the What-up birds are my friends. How do you know those birds? <br /><br />The girl looked closely at me and I could see the recognition spark in her eyes. She said, “Hey, weren’t you on that boat?” <br /><br />“Yes,” I laughed. “I’m Captain David of SOFTIN, and Captain Tiffany (I pointed across the driveway at her) was there, too.”<br /><br />All three kids looked at her, and the same girl squealed, “I know Captain Tiffany!”<br /><br />Tiffany rushed over and was immediately swarmed with hugs. The youngsters couldn’t talk and gesticulate fast enough to share their flood of happy memories from their SOFTIN trip with us. At times they talked over each other and at times they talked in unison. Through the whole story telling session they were wide-eyed and excited to relive and share their positive experiences and memories. They had been referred to us by our collaborating partner, Child Abuse Listening and Mediation (CALM). We have done many good works together. <br /><br />These are moments to live for…..<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.orgSeafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-60141165414189021702009-12-22T16:57:00.000-08:002009-12-22T16:58:49.542-08:00How do we keep this year in perspective?What a wild year for SOFTIN, and just about everyone else! Nonprofits are having a tough time and donations are generally declining. SOFTIN was able to buck that trend. Our revenues increased. The reason? Twofold, really. One is that people who understand the power of the sea… in terms of healing and in terms of being a place where change can happen… have come to SOFTIN’s aid with donations to fuel our program. The second reason is that we have worked very hard at attracting funding.<br /><br />One of our fundraising enterprises was to begin what will be an annual car show. That was a boatload of work, but a truckload of fun. We are anxious for next year’s show (Sunday, July 25th, save the date.) which will be at the WWII Air Museum in the Camarillo Air Field). We’ll have hot rods, classics, low riders, trucks, motorcycles and bicycles, along with vendors and stuff for everyone (kids, too) to do. Thanks to the folks are the WWII Air Museum, there will be vintage war birds mixed in. Can you imagine a WWII fighter plane next to a 1940s classic car? Awesome!<br /><br />SOFTIN’s Board of Directors put in a tremendous amount of volunteer work to provide direction, oversight and just good help. They help drive this boat and thanks to them we are on the right course.<br /><br />For the staff, the most memorable part of the year has been providing services and giving hope to hundreds. We have memories of trips which bring a tear to our eyes every time we think about or talk about those profound heartwarming experiences. We helped people overcome trauma, work through disabilities and impairments. We helped families stay together and learn to have fun family adventures to break cycles of abuse. We are making a mark on this world and it is a wonderful mark. Thank you for sharing the story and I hope you will find ways to help.<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.org<br /><br />PS: Our website (www.softininc.org) has buttons for Paypal and credit cards, to make donating easy.Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-40717949300724879432009-12-12T15:41:00.000-08:002009-12-12T15:43:14.793-08:00Donations Keep SOFTIN workingSharing good news makes my fingers quicker on the keyboard and right now I have happy fingertips. Two successive donations have helped SOFTIN to continue to provide services to our special-needs community.<br /><br />$500: I put on a talk about SOFTIN at a meeting of a fishing club. These are boat people who understand the value of lessons learned at sea. After the meeting, a feller (who wishes to remain anonymous) came up to me and asked for my address so that he could send a check because he felt deeply touched by what we do for the disabled, impaired, victims of abuse, frail elderly and youths-at-risk. Two days later his check for $500 arrived in the mail. He lived up to his word and thanks to him, more services can be provided.<br /><br />$1,603: In mid-November SOFTIN was invited to set up an information display for the corporate Charity Fair at FLIR Corporation, a high-tech company. I wrote a blog entry here at the time. We just received a letter from FLIR describing donations from employees, matching amounts from the company and an award from their community philanthropy fund. Along with the letter were checks totaling $1,603. Wow! There are plenty of special-needs people who are going to benefit greatly from this donation. <br /><br />SOFTIN is SO thankful for these two generous donations, especially here at year-end. We get a little misty-eyed about such things. We are, after all, SOFTIN softies and this is the most meaningful work we have ever done.<br /><br />Able to move forward,<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.org<br /><br />PS: That address for donations is:<br />SOFTIN<br />691 Camino Campana<br />Santa Barbara, Ca 93111Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-41691285854014294242009-11-26T12:45:00.000-08:002009-11-26T12:46:47.026-08:00Thankful for our opportunity to serveEven in a year of worldwide economic woes SOFTIN has much to be thankful for on this day of Thanksgiving. Our funding level has suffered, yet our level of service grew substantially to our highest level yet. Our collaborations with other nonprofit organizations grow stronger. Our volunteers… from Vivy Vague selling family-made candles and baskets, to Dave Bacon (my son) working on illustrations for the Bentwing Books, to the many hours of loving labor our Board of Directors puts in… remain steadfast and dedicated to our mission of providing at-sea educational adventures to special-needs people.<br /><br />It is a good Thanksgiving!<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.org<br /><br />PS: We are planning for next year and I’m glad to have you with us.Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-14902998041960268622009-11-15T07:08:00.000-08:002009-11-15T07:10:21.854-08:00Corporate Charity Fair a big hitSOFTIN was invited to an unusual and wonderful event…. A corporate Charity Fair. FLIR Corporation in Goleta, California does this each year. For many years, the company funneled employee contributions and corporate contributions to one of the big national charity organizations. But at the request of a number of their employees who wanted to see their contributions go to helping a variety of nonprofit charitable organizations, FLIR management came up with a bright plan… invite numerous charities (ranging from very small to very large) to set up display tables at a 2-hour Charity Fair in the large and tastefully decorated company break room. <br /><br />FLIR employees came in and talked with all of us, gaining helpful insight on all the wonderful charitable work being done locally, regionally and nationally. The employees even had a fun method of engaging in a raffle, based upon cards on which they gathered signatures from the nonprofit representatives they spoke with. Subsequently, FLIR awards donations to the various attending organizations.<br /><br />The event was a positive and engaging experience for all. I doff my hat in admiration and appreciation to FLIR Corporation and especially to the staff members who worked very hard to create and manage the Charity Fair.<br /><br />Working at SOFTIN is a joy,<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.orgSeafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-72062613356352619592009-11-02T13:09:00.001-08:002009-11-02T13:10:36.207-08:00Girding up for insurance renewalWe look forward to insurance renewals with some trepidation. Will the costs go up? Will the coverage go down? We are diligently working on coming up with tax-deductible donations to cover our insurance bill, anticipated to be near $1,700. <br /><br />SOFTIN Directors firmly believe in the importance of insurance. We carry liability insurance to protect people and assets. We also carry a Directors and Officers policy to protect our people and or organization. Every nonprofit organization should put good insurance coverage high on the list of financial priorities. It is always best to do things right. <br /><br />Keeping SOFTIN on the level, <br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.orgSeafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-32757191266469219942009-10-18T08:52:00.000-07:002009-10-18T08:53:25.725-07:00A teacher’s rewardAs we teach our special-needs passengers about the wonders of the sea, about stewardship of our environment and how to perform tasks aboard a vessel, SOFTIN teachers find our rewards in many of the same feelings as shore side classroom teachers. It is the amazing feeling of taking a pupil from ignorance to understanding on any given topic. The profound feeling of accomplishment felt by the student is perfectly mirrored in the teacher. <br /><br />It is a partnership… an agreement… a bond. On the student’s part, there is an acceptance of a teacher as one to learn from and a commitment to try to learn. On the teacher’s part, there is an acceptance of a void of knowledge to fill, skills to teach and a relationship to foster. When a pupil feels the joy of learning and a sense of accomplishment, the relationship bonds lights up with mutual accomplishment. The teacher is just as joyful as the student. At times, maybe more so. <br /><br />Those are feelings worth living for and seem to be most powerful between special-needs kids and their teachers. Consequently, SOFTIN teachers are happy teachers.<br /><br />Always for SOFTIN,<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.org<br /><br />PS: SOFTIN teachers are always looking for more special-needs pupils. Contact Capt. Tiffany (805 574-9388) to join in on an educational adventure.Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-21841267788785973612009-10-14T14:30:00.000-07:002009-10-14T14:31:29.210-07:00On marlinspike seamanship for special-needs peopleA look of self pride comes over anyone who masters a nautical knot or accomplishes some other form of marlinspike seamanship. But when a special-needs person learns well and demonstrates proficiency, the power of that feeling of accomplishment is a tangible and contagious feeling of joy. <br /><br />Teaching ropes and knots and coils and such is one of the most important parts of SOFTIN’s curriculum of on-the-water educational adventures. At times the task is a bowline knot and at other times it may be a proper cleat hitch and flemish coil. No matter the task, marlinspike seamanship skills are something to be proud of and something to be admired. Self respect and a sense of accomplishment are the desired byproducts and it always seems to work.<br /><br />SOFTIN passengers learn may things during the course of an adventure and seamanship lessons/skills have proven repeatedly to be among the most beneficial in terms of personal growth for the people we serve. <br /><br />Inviting you to help, <br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.org<br /><br />To join in on a SOFTIN trip, special-needs people or their caregivers are invited to contact Capt. Tiffany Vague at: tvague@softininc.orgSeafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-62127336417205363402009-10-08T10:49:00.000-07:002009-10-08T10:51:01.343-07:00Planning considerations for an educational adventureThe heart of SOFTIN is educational adventures for special-needs people. To make the most of an opportunity, the planning stages are vitally important. SOFTIN staff works closely with caregivers from family or collaborating agencies bringing the adventure-seekers to us for an excursion.<br /><br />Some special-needs people have more in the way of special-needs than others. For some, fear of the unknown is a huge obstacle to a rewarding experience and one which requires one-on-one nurturing and comforting throughout the educational adventure. We rely on caregivers to give us the information we need to provide for special-needs and in many cases we rely on caregivers to come along so the passengers can remain within their comfort zone and thereby maximize the benefits of the journey. <br /><br />Other special-needs people just need opportunities to expand their horizons. They are comfortable boarding a vessel, taking instruction and joining in the learning activities. The important thing is to learn about special needs in advance of the trip and prepare accordingly.<br /><br />Once our preparations are complete and we have provided for everyone’s needs, we begin the fun part… Teaching enabling life skills and sense of self esteem to challenged special-needs people (including disabled, impaired, victims of abuse, frail elderly, youths-at-risk) though one-on-one, hands-on educational lessons and experiences at sea; practicing marlinspike seamanship; viewing, identification and monitoring of marine mammals and seabirds; demonstrating subsistence/recreational fishing skills focused on the principles of ethical angling; teaching ocean conservation values and water quality issues; learning about the people, infrastructure, vessel types and job/career opportunities among our waterfront communities; monitoring and educating the public and resource managers about sea life and habitat. <br /><br />SOFTIN invites you to help,<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.org<br /><br />PS: We do not charge our special needs passengers. Our work is to benefit them.Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-39448439925217142762009-10-05T07:14:00.001-07:002009-10-05T07:20:06.460-07:00Seeking Support for a donated sailboat and berthA generous couple in Santa Barbara… as previously reported here in our blog… has offered to donate a 25’ sailboat complete with a berth (slip) in the Santa Barbara Harbor. SOFTIN is seeking financial support to take possession of this wonderful service resource which we plan to use to provide sailing adventures to deserving people with disabilities, impairments, victims of abuse, frail elderly and youths-at-risk. <br /><br />I estimate the combined value of the sailboat and slip to be $26,000. The first-year costs are estimated to be $15,000. In subsequent years, the costs will drop to a fraction of the first year costs, so the value will still be strongly positive, in terms of dollars and cents. In terms of service to the special-needs people we serve, the continuing value will be… well, priceless. <br /><br />SOFTIN invites you to help,<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.org<br /><br />PS: We do not charge our special needs passengers. Our work is to benefit them.Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-5652170768051749442009-09-25T17:02:00.000-07:002009-09-25T17:04:31.088-07:00A surprising story about state government relationsI just had to share this story because it surprised and delighted me.<br /><br />I try to find and follow all regulations and requirements. It takes some doing, considering the myriad requirements of city, county, state and federal government. After much research and sifting through conflicting information, I determined that we should have a sellers permit from the Ca Board of Equalization (BOE) because a very small amount of the income (a whopping $57) from our car show is actually taxable. So I went through the application process and got the durned thing right before the car show. Filing is quarterly, so I’ve been waiting for October to file. Meanwhile, I received two letters from the BOE notifying me that they require a $2,000 security deposit. <br /><br />So I called them up, got to the right person (which was actually easier than I expected) and explained that we have $57 to pay taxes on, meaning that our total tax liability will be about 5 bucks. Therefore a $2,000 security deposit is way out of line and makes it unreasonable for me to comply with the regulations. You can imagine my surprise when the state of California understood my logic, agreed with me and waived the security deposit. They even invited me to call them up when I’m ready to file (about next week) and they will walk me through it the first time. These folks are downright reasonable and sociable!<br /><br />Just had the share the good story,<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.orgSeafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-2193989805164887182009-09-23T21:56:00.000-07:002009-09-23T21:59:44.525-07:00Seeking the perfect venue for SOFTIN’s next car show fundraiserAfter such a rousing and fun car show fundraiser this year, SOFTIN’s Programs Manager, Capt. Tiffany Vague (tvague@softininc.org) is searching for the perfect venue for our next car show fundraiser. We have the date… Sunday, July 25, 2010, so mark your calendars and please plan to join the fun as a visitor or maybe enter your car. We will have a long list of show categories. Entries can be handled with Capt. Tiffany.<br /><br />The location will probably be in the tri-counties area (Santa Barbara, Ventura or San Luis Obispo counties of California), but we may find a perfect place elsewhere. We expect more cars, more vendors, more fun things for kids to do and fun things for the adults, too. I’m thinking a dance contest might be fun, with music from the 50’s 60’s 70’s, 80’s 90’s and 2k tunes as well. <br /><br />I hope you will be there!<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.orgSeafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-64048626302016641492009-09-17T09:51:00.000-07:002009-09-17T09:52:54.944-07:00Porpoise and dolphins and other SOFTIN friendsLoud cheers and high excitement fill SOFTIN’s boat with joy whenever porpoise or dolphin are spotted during our educational adventures. This month we are spotting porpoise frequently as they lazily and at times playfully cruise along the coast – often just outside the surf zone – looking for their favorite forage fish. These fun and funny critters remind us of the old Flipper show and our special-needs passengers just love them.<br /><br />Excitement runs high when common dolphins move inshore to chase bait fish. These high-energy critters swim fast and jump high, much to the delight of SOFTIN adventurers. The best part is when they gather around the bow of the WaveWalker (SOFTIN’s excursion vessel) and ride along with us. <br /><br />Seals and sea lions are our constant companions around the harbor and we nearly always have a chance to visit them. Sea birds and shore birds are likewise ever-present partners on SOFTIN trips.<br /><br />High adventure and good times await special-needs friends of SOFTIN. Do you know people with disabilities, impairments, and other special needs? Contact SOFTIN to arrange for an educational adventure they will grow from. Capt. Tiffany Vague organizes our trips. She can be contacted at tvague@softininc.org. <br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Need (SOFTIN), Inc.<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.orgSeafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-41043557933634634272009-09-15T15:12:00.000-07:002009-09-15T15:15:39.938-07:00SOFTIN receives funding from Santa Barbara Yacht Club WomenSanta Barbara Yacht Club Women Foundation donated $1,200 to SOFTIN to fund educational adventures for special-needs kids. SOFTIN will work with collaborating organizations to identify recipients, based upon needs assessment or reward system, who will benefit from learning about the waterfront, various vessel types, ocean-related career opportunities, marine mammals, sea and shore birds, marlinspike seamanship, fishing, marine resource management, water quality management, marine debris prevention and the concept of becoming trusted shipmates. <br /><br />The rewards of these educational adventures are profound and meaningful and SOFTIN thanks the Santa Barbara Yacht Club Women for making such adventures possible.<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Need (SOFTIN), Inc.<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.orgSeafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-1912162425943532292009-09-08T07:46:00.000-07:002009-09-08T07:48:31.238-07:00Sailboat & Slip donated if SOFTIN can cover expensesA kind and wonderful couple offered to donate their sailboat (a Cal 25’) and slip to SOFTIN. This allows us to add a significant and powerfully therapeutic service to SOFTIN’s program of providing at-sea educational and self-esteem building experiences to special needs people we serve. <br /><br />We are thinking that once a passenger works through our curriculum aboard the WaveWalker (our existing service vessel), this allows an option for continuing education and adventure aboard the sailboat. This concept will provide both an incentive and reward for our passengers and give us the opportunity to help them grow and experience another dimension of adventure at sea, first-hand and hands-on. I can just picture their ear-to-ear grins as they haul on ropes, watch the wind fill the sails and feel the power of nature provide momentum.<br /><br />The challenge facing us (and I hope you will help us with this) is a first year expense of roughly $14,500. Subsequent years will be less costly. The costs of the first year are weighted by slip transfer and other one-time fees. Our deadline for raising the funds is nearly November. <br /><br />Always for SOFTIN,<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Need (SOFTIN), Inc.<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />www.softininc.orgSeafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-767180522058212522009-09-03T08:36:00.000-07:002009-09-03T08:39:11.479-07:00Invitation to make good things happenSOFTIN has the capacity to establish and maintain collaborative relations with additional organizations which provide services to special-needs people. Our list of collaborators is impressive (YMCA, Parents of Special Education, Child Abuse Listening & Mediation, and others) and we have room for more. We invite and encourage contact from potential collaborators so that we can enrich lives by providing at-sea educational adventures. <br /><br />Please make contacts for us, should you know of someone who works at such an organization. You can make good things happen for some very deserving people. Do you have special needs people in your family or circle of friends? Tell them about us and help them contact us. <br /><br />Contact Capt. Tiffany Vague at tvague@softininc.org, to explore a collaborative relationship or to schedule educational adventures for special-needs people. <br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN, Inc.<br />www.softininc.org<br /><br />PS: We do not charge our special needs passengers. Our work is to benefit them.Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-23823528320772902512009-08-28T21:22:00.000-07:002009-08-28T21:33:28.601-07:00Note of thanks for hosting our Board meetingSOFTIN wants to offer a note of appreciation to Marriott of Ventura Beach for hosting a meeting, yesterday, of our Board of Directors. Allowing us use of a nicely appointed meeting room was a gracious and helpful contribution. The cookies, melon tray, coffee and water were very nice touches. This resort hotel is beautiful and staff members were friendly and helpful to a person. They even checked with us periodically to see if there was anything they could do to make our experience better. We couldn’t have been more pleased. <br /><br />Our BoD meeting was quite productive. We voted in a new slate of Directors and Officers, listened to officer and committee reports, discussed our escalating services to special-needs people, reviewed our social networking plan, our fundraising event and laid plans for future fundraising and community awareness raising events. Finally, we discussed a sailboat and slip that a wonderful donor wants to give to SOFTIN to help us expand our services. <br /><br />Life really is sweet when providing special services to special-needs people. <br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director, SOFTIN<br />www.softininc.org<br />http://softininc.blogspot.com<br />dbacon@softininc.org<br />(805) 895-3273 (my cell phone to call and arrange a donation)Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-62341538378449116962009-08-05T12:28:00.000-07:002009-08-05T12:30:06.606-07:00Changing mentalities during a day of serving special-needsRunning consecutive trips for groups with vastly different special-needs can be a mental and emotional workout. Yesterday, for example… a grieving family came out with us. It wasn’t a case of a family member passing away. It was a case of the father having to leave to serve a jail term. The children and wife were suffering terribly and they needed a family educational adventure to have as a memory. They had a blast and built a beautiful memory together.<br /><br />Minutes after they disembarked the next group came aboard… children at high risk as a result of their parents’ involvement in the drug culture. They came to us with therapists from our collaborating partner, Child Abuse Listening & Mediation (CALM). They children learned a great deal about part of the world they new little-to-nothing about.<br /><br />The needs of these two specific groups were very different, yet each was a special need that SOFTIN is perfectly and uniquely positioned to fill with an at-sea educational, self esteem and skill building adventure. It gave the grieving family a time of togetherness and adventure to cherish during the forced separation. It gave the children at risk a look outside the box they usually live in, gave them a taste of adventure and a sense of what lifestyles they could strive to live and what waterfront or at-sea professions they could aspire to.<br /><br />Meeting varied special-needs is challenging yet equally rewarding because we see so clearly that we are helping special needs people in profound and unique ways. We sure could use your help. Will you contact us and offer to help fund our work?<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director, SOFTIN<br /><a href="http://www.softininc.org/">www.softininc.org</a><br /><a href="http://softininc.blogspot.com/">http://softininc.blogspot.com</a><br /><a href="mailto:dbacon@softininc.org">dbacon@softininc.org</a>(805) 895-3273 (my cell phone to call and arrange a donation)Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-12000542709037021682009-08-01T07:59:00.000-07:002009-08-01T08:01:13.354-07:00Car show community awareness event a success for SOFTINHundreds of spectators had a blast admiring well over one hundred show cars decked out in stunning details and shining like a noonday sun at the Earl Warren Showgrounds in Santa Barbara. There were muscle cars with engine parts poking up above their hoods and every inch of engine compartment in use. There were classic cars which brought back many a wonderful memory for those of us old enough to remember playing in those cars. There were lowriders with amazing paint jobs and innovative modifications. There were custom-built bicycles that stopped spectators in their tracks. There was plenty to see.<br /><br />There was plenty to do, as well. A live band, RedFish classic rock band, donated their time to play toe-tapping music inside the domed building the whole day and keep our spirits soaring. Two DJs (Mike “the Cholo” DJ performed as a volunteer and also handled the awards ceremony) played in different areas on the grassy areas outside the building. A fine showing of vendors gave car show owners and spectators alike plenty to shop for. A used book sale table offered attractions to avid readers. A silent auction provided a method for folks to support SOFTIN and buy wonderful goods, services and adventures. A kiddy corner – complete with fun and games – gave the little ones plenty of action and honed their game skills.<br /><br />The show finished with a raffle drawing and trophy awards for the best show vehicles in dozens of classes. A truckload of trophies were awarded. We wished we had planned for one more category… not for show cars, but for the best dancers. One couple in particular, who did win a trophy for their truck, would also have left with a trophy for best dancers. They just couldn’t help but move to the music of RedFish inside and the DJs outside.<br /><br />A heartwarming act of SOFTIN mission support brought tears to many an eye. Actually, two acts. The gentleman who won the 50/50 raffle (50/50 meaning that the prize was 50% of the raffle ticket sales money) put his winnings into the SOFTIN donation jug. The second act was when the same gentlemen won the other cash prize (donated along with a raffle prize) and also put that money into the donation jug. His name is withheld by request, otherwise we would shout his name from the rooftops. He’s our hero.<br /><br />SOFTIN thanks our volunteers and the community (especially the car culture community) for their generous outpouring of support. Proceeds from SOFTIN events support our programs to provide at-sea education and skill-building adventures for the disabled, impaired, victims of abuse, frail elderly and youths-at-risk.<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br /><a href="http://www.softininc.org/">www.softininc.org</a><br /><a href="http://softininc.blogspot.com/">http://softininc.blogspot.com</a>Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-13406322276791874512009-07-24T21:53:00.000-07:002009-07-24T21:57:10.277-07:00Five battered families served by SOFTIN in one very special eveningFive families living under abusive conditions, and trying to break the patterns of abuse, had a chance for a healing adventure thanks to a special trip arranged by SOFTIN in collaboration with Capt. Jason Diamond, owner/operator of the vessel Stardust in Santa Barbara. A special “Thank you” to Capt. Jason and his crew, Sal and KC.<br /><br />These families are in a special program, working with therapists from Child Abuse Listening & Mediation (CALM)… a collaborator of SOFTIN’s. CALM contacted SOFTIN and we put together a special evening trip for this large group.<br /><br />The weather was perfect, seas were calm, critters were friendly and in wonderful abundance. A special treat was cruising slowly by a navigation buoy in use by nearly a dozen California sea lions hauled out and sunning themselves. We studied pinnipeds, shore birds and pelagic sea birds and plant life. We talked about local shipwrecks, conservation, water quality management, marine debris prevention and wildlife management as we taught the principles of ethical angling. The kids had a blast catching a releasing fish and it was readily apparent that some of them discovered a healthy outdoors hobby.<br /><br />One of our volunteers noted that the children had come aboard with traces of sadness in their eyes, but left with smiling faces and eyes lit up with the joy of adventure.<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br /><a href="http://www.softininc.org/">http://www.softininc.org/</a><br /><a href="http://softininc.blogspot.com/">http://softininc.blogspot.com/</a>Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-17405842826065306432009-07-22T18:37:00.000-07:002009-07-22T18:40:49.144-07:00Car Show FUNdraiser countdownFinal days of preparations brought many pleasant surprises for SOFTIN’s car show and silent auction, this Saturday (July 25th) at Santa Barbara’s Earl Warren Showgrounds at Las Positas offramp from the 101 freeway, 10:00am to 4:00pm. We have commitments from many car clubs to bring their gorgeous show cars… hotrods, classics, lowriders, trucks and even custom bicycles. We have good turnout from the vendor community with lots of goods and services represented. Stacks of great used books will be for sale at a special table. We’ll have games and plenty for kids to do. Adults and kids alike will enjoy listening to RedFish classic rock band. We expect two DJ’s to mix music, games, fun and announcements. Take a chance on a valuable raffle. A huge rack of trophies will be awarded to the best show cars, trucks and bicycles. Judging will be done by professionals. Food and drinks are available at the concession stand in the dome.<br /><br />We’re ready to roll out a great show. All we need now is a solid turnout from the community. Please plan to come and generously support SOFTIN’s programs. If you are unable to attend, please consider supporting SOFTIN by using the Donate Now button here on SOFTIN’s blogspot page.<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br /><a href="http://www.softininc.org/">www.softininc.org</a><br /><a href="http://softininc.blogspot.com/">http://softininc.blogspot.com</a><br /><br />PS: More detailed information about the car show/silent auction is at: <a href="http://www.softininc.org/SOFTIN/Fundraising_Event.html">http://www.softininc.org/SOFTIN/Fundraising_Event.html</a>Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045381221699974326.post-34028695798726326582009-07-18T16:50:00.000-07:002009-07-18T16:51:30.818-07:00Boat work... the other full time SOFTIN jobAnything that has to do with boats comes with a hidden agenda… boat work. SOFTIN’s good deeds are no exception. For every hour spent with our special-needs passengers, there is an hour and a half worth of boat work to do.<br /><br />A SOFTIN day begins at the office getting the paperwork ready and progresses to the boat well in advance of the time we plan to meet the passengers. The boat must be cleaned and made safe and presentable inside and out (even though it may have been cleaned after a trip the day before… there are birds around the harbor, don’t ya know). Life vests must be checked. Curriculum supplies must be checked and stowed in a readily-accessible location. There must be time to check the boat’s electrical systems, navigational and hazard avoidance systems and steering. We start and warm up the motors, while listening to the latest reports on the marine radio station. We begin the passenger manifest and prepare the mandatory paperwork for the passengers or their caregivers to read, fill-out and sign.<br /><br />Now the real fun begins. Once the passengers arrive the crew is thoroughly enjoying ourselves meeting and getting to know the people, fitting life vests and giving a safety orientation so that everyone feels and behaves safely. Now we get to cast off and work through our curriculum, tailored to meet the special needs of this particular group of people. We are flexible enough to bring the adventure to life for the people we serve.<br /><br />After the trip and the passengers leave, more boat work remains. We go to the fuel dock, fill up and return to the slip. We write logs and file paperwork. We stow safety gear and curriculum materials where they belong. We clean the boat again, just as thoroughly as before the trip. Finally we lock up the vessel and go back to the office to catch up on business matters and line up more SOFTIN excursions before going home to a much-needed meal and a well-deserved night’s sleep.<br /><br />There may be a lot to it, but SOFTIN work is bliss because it is deeply touching to help special needs people so profoundly.<br /><br />Capt. David Bacon<br />Executive Director,<br />SOFTIN, Inc.<br /><a href="http://www.softininc.org/">www.softininc.org</a><br /><a href="http://www.softininc.blogspot.com/">www.softininc.blogspot.com</a>Seafaring Opportunities For Those In Needhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09921308713088653344noreply@blogger.com0