RIISA was founded in 1973 for the purpose of providing education and training in the technique of racing and designing sailboats for national and international competition and thus improve the caliber of candidates for the representation of the United States in the Olympic, Pan American Games, America’s Cup Series, or other international racing events.

The corporation has a broad charter, within which its management is qualified to embark on many varied pursuits within the marine field. Thus far the focus of effort had been the encouragement and training of young Rhode Island sailors in their efforts to achieve the highest levels of U.S. and International sailing competitions. 

Funds are needed to assist young people to train for and compete in high level events both in this country and abroad. Sailors apply to us for grants and we consider each request on a case-by-case basis and assign grants based on need. We rely on contributions from the public for the funds that we then give to applicants.

 Among other endeavors with our young sailors, RIISA has: 

· Sponsored an exchange program with yacht clubs in other nations. Each year one or more young sailors have taught sailing overseas while local club members and their yacht clubs have been host for room and board and for sailing training. 

· Sponsored and organized the RIISA Regatta. The regatta serves the purpose of RIISA by exposing the RIISA name to championship sailors from all over the U.S. and at the same time affords an opportunity for our young sailors to see in action and to meet some of the country’s finest sailors sailing some of the world’s finest boats. 

· Along with several Rhode Island marine businesses, sponsored a demonstration showcasing the skills and equipment of Rhode Island Olympic hopefuls. A raffle was conducted at the site and the proceeds were divided among these sailors. 

· RIISA also is able to provide designated financial accounts for Olympic campaigns - thereby assisting fundraising efforts over the long and expensive road to the Olympic games.

RIISA

Board Members

Leeds Mitchell III, President

Karen North, Vice President

Leeds Mitchell IV, Secretary

Norman Moore, Treasurer

Dr. Thomas Enright

Ted Hale

Joel Hanneman

Matthew Hill

W.H. Dyer Jones

Joy Mitchell

R. Bruce Morris

Lee Parks

Fred Roy