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Bridging Horizons: Rafting up, Supporting Growth
Friday, October 2, 2026

In 2025, our organization deepened its commitment to youth development by widening the circle of who we serve and how we serve them. What began as focused programming for young men navigating the juvenile justice system, has grown into programs that welcome all ages, all backgrounds and experience levels. 

As we move into our twelfth year of enriching lives through craftsmanship, serving court connected youth remains at the core of what we do. 

Through craftsmanship and woodworking, participants discovered patience, problem-solving, and pride in creating something tangible with their hands. On the water, they found confidence, teamwork, and a powerful connection to place. Keeping all programming free remained central to our mission, ensuring that curiosity and opportunity were never limited by cost.

Over the years, the needs of our community have shifted, but one thing remains the same. Meeting youth and their families where they are while inviting them to learn by doing is key.

This year was defined by collaboration and community. New partnerships expanded our reach, enriched our programs, and connected us to shared values across organizations, educators, and local leaders. At the same time, our community of supporters grew in both number and spirit—volunteers, donors, and advocates who believe deeply in hands-on learning and equitable access. Together, they helped build not just programs, but a supportive ecosystem where young people can grow skills, confidence, and belonging that will carry them far beyond our workshops and waterways.

Serving Our Youth

Throughout the year we served 92 youth in our 8-week CORE program. Many of our youth join us afterschool once a week at the Boat Shop where they have the opportunity to work on projects or get out on the water.
 
Collaboration

No single organization can do it all but once we come together we can make magic and new memories happen!

This year we have had the opportunity to partner with many organizations such as Sea Potential, Innovative Changemakers, Tahoma Indian Center, Foss Waterway Seaport Museum, Tacoma Public Libraries, and more.
Building Together

Outside of boating season, we launched the Building Together program. This program invites community members of all ages and skill levels to come and build a range of woodworking projects with us. In it's first year we had over 60 participants, many of whom have never been to our shop before!

 
Community Boating

From mid-May to September you can catch our crew helping community members experience the beauty of Tacoma from the water in one of our traditionally built wooden vessels.  During our 2025 season, we were able to support 122 participants in getting out on the water.

Can't wait to get back out on the water this year!

Carving as Medicine

Through collaboration with the Tahoma Indian Center, TBB has had the honor of hosting monthly carving sessions in the shop. During these sessions participants are guided by immensely skilled resident carvers, Rick Williams (Nitinaht Tribe) and D’Arcy Basil (Secwepemc).
Volunteers and Mentors

Our amazing community of volunteers donated 1,400 hours of their time throughout the year. They provided invaluable knowledge and support for our team, helping ensure our shop and the boats are ready to serve youth.

Thats the equivalent of $45,870 in wages!

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