Therapeutic Sailing for Everyone
Our Mission
We create powerful opportunities for people to discover healing and potential through sailing adventures.
Healing. Purpose. Joy.
Everyone needs a place to reset—and for many, that place is the water. At Dogsmile Adventures, we focus on serving under-resourced communities: veterans, youth, and individuals facing challenges like substance use, domestic violence, or physical and mental disabilities. But in truth, therapeutic sailing is for everyone. You don't have to be diagnosed with a specific condition or carry documentation supporting your case to need our help. Everyone is fighting some kind of battle every day. Sailing brings people into nature, onto the waves, and into a shared experience of healing and discovery.
It’s more than just a boat ride. It’s a chance to build confidence, reduce stress, and feel a sense of freedom, purpose, and connection. Whether you’re navigating hardship or simply seeking peace, sailing offers a powerful way to reconnect—with yourself, with others, and with the world around you.
Real Stories. Real Impact.
Why sailing? Because it works!
There’s really nothing like a boat on water. Sailing experiences go way beyond the activity of sailing. Participants will learn leadership, teamwork, and, most importantly, resilience—skills that will serve them throughout their lives. You can do it alone or with others. Sailing takes you places, literally and figuratively. It exercises your body and your mind. It’s real.
The impact of our programs can last a lifetime. Engagement with the great outdoors, paired with the self-discipline and interpersonal connections that occur there, has been proven to benefit mood and increase self-esteem.
Boat rides make people feel better. The numbers don't lie. Therapeutic sailing is making a difference in our community. Check out our impact since our inception in 2021.
3,526
Sailing Experiences
14,811
Hours of Therapeutic Sailing
“It’s so fun to be able to have a job and learn something and the community is so supportive and it’s given me so much this summer.”
Zola Coleman, Jr. Sailor & Volunteer
“It’s been such a huge positive thing for our whole family. I would say for anybody who’s struggling with sensory issues, this is a phenomenal experience for them.”
Tim Neary, Father
“Sailing with Dogsmail Adventures would be good for anybody, especially veterans that are dealing with any kind of issues that stem from their military service.”
Brad Jackson, Navy Veteran & NIC Student
We believe that the water is for everyone. Whether you’re a veteran, a student, a first‑timer, or someone seeking a new horizon—our boat is your invitation.
Our Programs
No pressure. No expectations. Just come aboard and enjoy the ride.
No experience needed. Just show up, get involved, and grow your skills with every sail.
What we practice on the water shapes how we move through life. Contact us to learn more.
Meet the Team
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Jon Totten
Founder, Executive Director, Board President
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Cort Nutt
Fleet Manager & Sailing Instructor
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Barb Perusse
Board of Directors
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Charlie Miller
Board of Directors
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Keith Russell
Board of Directors
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Kathy Chambers
Board of Directors
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Terry Brinton
Vice President, Board of Directors, Instructor
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Cally King
Board of Directors, Secretary
Get Involved
At Dogsmile Adventures, everyone has a place on deck. Whether you want to sail, support someone else’s journey, or fuel our mission from shore, there are so many meaningful ways to get involved. Choose the path that inspires you.
Buy a Boat Ride
Join a Program
Donate
Volunteer
Dogsmile Merch
Anchored in Community
Dogsmile Adventures is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) therapeutic sailing program built on trust, on inclusion, on mission. We are committed to changing lives through sailing, for all who show up.
What is a Dogsmile?
“A Dogsmile is an expression of unadulterated happiness. You're so happy that you don't care about how you look or how you're seen or what anyone else thinks. It's the biggest grin possible.
The more teeth, the better (this part is key as it scares away the haters and those who are simply unaware).”
- Jon Totten, Founder