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PHILANTHROPY

At Southwestern Yacht Club (SWYC), philanthropy is central to our mission. Membership here means joining a community that values compassion, generosity, and making a difference. For over a decade, SWYC has proudly supported ElderHelp, a vital organization empowering San Diego’s seniors to live independently with dignity. ElderHelp's dedicated staff and 350+ volunteers ensure that 84 cents of every dollar directly benefits seniors, earning them a top 4-star rating from CharityNavigator.org.

Our Benefit on the Bay events, which began with the Charity Bay Race in 1984, have expanded to include the Anglers’ Bottom Fishing Tournament and the Beacon of Light Fundraiser, collectively raising over $1 million for local charities. Throughout the year, we also integrate fundraising opportunities into various Club activities.

This year, we are hosting three major fundraising events as part of our Benefit on the Bay campaign.

Bottom Fishing Tournament and Fish Dinner

The Bottom Fishing Tournament and Fish Dinner led by the SWYC Anglers on May 11th. The Bottom Fishing Tournament, first held in February 1971, began as a ‘winter tournament’ to boost off-season activity and quickly became an annual tradition at SWYC. This year, the tournament kicks off on May 11th, 2024, featuring categories for men, women, juniors, and smallfry. With a $75 entry fee for adults and $25 for juniors (16 and under), participants enjoy breakfast, a day of fishing, and a Mexican Fiesta Banquet with auctions and raffles. Over the years, the tournament has evolved into a key part of SWYC’s Benefit on the Bay, supporting charities like Friends of Rollo and ElderHelp.

Charity Bay Race

The Charity Bay Race sponsored by Sail Fleet on June 23rd. Since 1984, SWYC’s Charity Bay Race has been a highlight of our annual events. This year, the excitement kicks off with a Buy-Up Buy-Down party on Friday, followed by the Charity Bay Race and Awards Party on Sunday, June 23, 2024. As one of the nation’s largest charity regattas, the race covers a challenging 10-mile course around San Diego Bay, open to all yacht classes. The entry fee includes two BBQ and Awards tickets, with additional tickets available for $25 each. Benefiting ElderHelp of San Diego, the race is a key part of SWYC’s Benefit on the Bay, which also includes the Bottom Fishing Tournament and Beacon of Light party.

Beacon of Light Party

The Beacon of Light Party on September 28th. Our Beacon of Light Party, established in 2016, returns on Saturday, September 28, 2024, in support of ElderHelp of San Diego. Last year’s ‘Feeling Groovy’ themed event featured a signature cocktail, heavy hors d'oeuvres, a DJ, photo booth, and lively auctions with items like private chef experiences, Lake Tahoe getaways, and exclusive tours. Expect even more extraordinary items this year, including a surprise ‘once in a lifetime’ experience.

Reservations are required, and all proceeds benefit ElderHelp. Thank you to our generous members—your support makes a difference!

This year’s theme, "You've Got a Friend in Me," captures the spirit of our philanthropic efforts. By supporting us as a sponsor, adopting a senior, or attending our events, you help bring hope and care to our community’s seniors. Every contribution, big or small, makes a significant impact.

We are truly grateful for your generosity. Together, we can create a brighter future for our seniors and make a lasting difference in our community.

Contributors
Benefit on the Bay Gratefully Acknowledges our Official Sponsors

Receive the heartfelt thanks of more than 900 seniors living independently and with dignity by supporting our club-wide fundraiser benefiting ElderHelp of San Diego. 

Thank You Sponsors!

DIAMOND SPONSORS
Commodore John & Sue Robey
Drs. Jerry & Lynn Legerton
S/C Chris Brzezinski & Angie Bartosik
 
PLATINUM BEACON SPONSORS
Ernie & Paige Anderson
V/C Mark & Linda Pearcy
Cathy Lonergan - in Honor of Jim Lonergan
Mathew & Sheri Gates
 
GOLD LANTERN SPONSORS
Michael & Carrie Goldstein
R/C John & Charity Goodrich
Bernadette Daly Swanson
George & Gillian Percy - in Honor of Jerry Cope
Mari-Cris & Thomas Armstrong
Charles & Mary Sholtis
R/C Allan Bombard, MD & P/C Paula Vance
 
SILVER LIGHTHOUSE SPONSORS
Pat Hansen
Sean Berry
Alice Ana & James Ward
S/C Russ & Veola Cornelius
Steve & Kelly Bloom
Mike & Helga Riddle
Tony & Heather Evans
Director Tom & Lana Hammons
Richard & Frani Smith
Rocky & Cheryl Wilson
Marsha Mooradian Jenness
D Dock – Putt for ElderHelp
Larry & Susan Twomey
Debbie Hall
Nora Varner
Mary Ellen & Tom Ybarrola - in honor of Hal & Hazel Russell
Gerry & Mary O'Malley
Barbara Fryer
Brion & Barbara Murray
 
CORINTHIAN SPONSORS
Randy & Michelle Austin
Steve & Fran Greene
Keith Robertson
Joe & Hildy Mignone
Nancy & Bob Myernick
Natilee Meacham - in honor of Jerry Cope
Gary Jones & Marlene Martinez
Michael & Gloria Hardcastle-Taylor
Ron & Arlene Dixon
Maria & Jim Ring
Jan Bell
 
ADOPT A SENIOR
S/C Ryan Hunter
Don & Marjan Garber
Sue & Rich Herz
Linda Lynn
Kay Faulconer Boger
Jacques Naviaux & Michelle Lindwall
Director Kendra Olson
Brian & Karen Falterman
Bill & Cindy Roush
Jessica Colyer
Wade Bruffey
Weston Bruffey
Bonnie & Steve Mull
Per & Viveka Kjellgen
Joan Bach
Tara & Thomas Ritacco
Nora Varner
S/C John & Eileen Lower
Don & Ellen Freeman
Brian Chandler
Mary Ann Fallon
DONORS
Eric Huizar
Fred and Nancy Grant
Mike Fontaine
Jason Everett
Jody Flemming
Jim and Maria Ring
P/C Rorie and Jeffrey Ring
Melisa McCloskey
Miguel Martinez and Laurie Chambliss
Gloira and Mike Hardcastle-Taylor
Elyse Lowe
Scott Hagner and Nancine Belfiore
Renee and John Prentice
Patrick Twohig
Joni Shoemaker
Bob Ricciardi
Marjan and Don Garber
Bradley Hoag
Rick Ten Eyck
Director Susan Werner - In Memory of Shawn Barrera

Southwestern Junior Foundation

The Southwestern Junior Foundation is a separate 501C(3) tax exempt organization whose charitable activities are dedicated to furthering the education and development of the youth of San Diego County by providing boating and sailing opportunities and classes for children and teens. The Southwestern Junior Foundation is made up of non-members and members of Southwestern Yacht Club. The Southwestern Junior Foundation provides grants to high school and college sailing teams and supports Friends of Rollo and Sea Scouts. The Southwestern Junior Foundation is active in supporting the SWYC’s world-class Junior Program and provides scholarships for children in need of financial assistance for angling and sailing experience. 

Contact Jason Saiz for Scholarships & Donations

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