Causes: Children & Youth, Crime & Law, Human Services, Marine Science & Oceanography, Recreation & Sports, Sports, Technology, Youth Violence Prevention

Mission: The Los Angeles Maritime Institute (LAMI) serves to empower youth to discover their greater potential through extraordinary at-sea experiences aboard the tall ships Irving Johnson and Exy Johnson. Sail training uses the experience of being at sea, as part of the ship's crew, as a means to help youth learn about themselves, discover hidden strengths and talents, understand the value of working as a team, and develop 21st century leadership skills.

Results: Sail training requires youth to confront many demanding challenges, both physical and emotional. It inspires self-confidence and personal responsibility. It promotes an acceptance of others whatever their social or cultural backgrounds, and develops a willingness to take controlled risks. For most youth who undertake sail training on a Tall Ship, it is a positive life-changing experience. Since our founding in 1993, we have served more than 60,000 youth in under-served communities throughout the Greater Los Angeles Area with transformational experiences at sea.

Target demographics: young people develop the problem solving and leadership skills needed for adult life, and discover maritime and marine biology career paths.

Direct beneficiaries per year: 3,500 youth

Geographic areas served: Title 1 schools and socio-economically challenged communities throughout Los Angeles County.

Programs: TopSail Youth Program, Student Ocean Scientist Program, Science at Sea Programs, Volunteer Youth Crew Program, Boat Building Program, Adventure Learning Voyages to Channel Islands.