Kenosha Community Sailing Center

Empowering Communities Through Sailing and Water Sports

Founded in spring 2008 as a nonprofit organization, the Kenosha Community Sailing Center (KCSC) owes its inception to the visionary leadership of founder Jim Buck. Mr. Buck assembled a v team to establish a premier sailing program, fostering a passion for water sports in Kenosha. Initially collaborating with local agencies, KCSC introduced sailing to Kenosha’s youth, sparking widespread community interest and appreciation for the sport. Today, KCSC is a vibrant organization committed to providing a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment for individuals of all ages to explore sailing and deepen their connection to Lake Michigan.

From its humble beginnings with a modest collection of small boats, KCSC has significantly expanded its fleet, incorporating Hartleys, Optimists, Open Bics, 4 – Rhodes 19s, and a distinguished 33-foot Tartan as its flagship vessel. The Optimist, affectionately dubbed the “bathtub,” introduces young sailors to the sport, while Hartleys serve as the cornerstone of the youth training fleet, accommodating solo or team sailing to develop leadership and teamwork skills. Open Bics offer an exhilarating experience for adventurous students, and Rhodes 19s provide an ideal platform for advanced learners or adults new to sailing. This diverse fleet ensures that KCSC meets the needs of all participants, fostering skill development and enjoyment.

KCSC proudly offers a comprehensive range of sailing classes tailored for youth, teens, and adults, with flexible schedules, including private lessons, to accommodate diverse community needs. Through hands-on sailing instruction, students engage with STEM concepts—such as weather patterns, mechanics, and wind and water dynamics—in an exciting, practical context, making learning both fun and impactful.

In 2021, KCSC expanded its offerings by introducing Yellow Duck pedal boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and water trikes to Kenosha Harbor. This rental program has broadened access to the harbor, delighting community members and visitors alike with recreational opportunities that bring smiles to those strolling along the waterfront. To ensure year-round engagement, KCSC volunteers maintain the fleet during winter months. In winter 2023, KCSC launched youth classes focused on boat and water themes, where students built model sailboats, gaining hands-on experience with basic hand and power tools.

Safety is an important issue with all of us at KCSC.  It is part of all of our classes. Our staff have reach out into the community presenting the safety around water to local schools and community organizations.

In summer 2024, KCSC partnered with a local Boy Scout to establish, deploy, and stock a Life Jacket Loaner station at Simmons Island Beach, enhancing safety for beachgoers. KCSC’s deep community ties are reflected in its collaborations with organizations such as the Boy Scouts, Boys and Girls Club, Harborside, Kenosha Parks Alliance, Kenosha Beach House, Gateway Technical College, Carthage College, Safety Around Water Coalition, and the YMCA. KCSC actively participates in community events, including the Kenosha Expo, Harbor Market, Gateway Earth Day, Children’s Expo, Lakefest, YMCA Health Fair, and city parades. Additionally, KCSC hosts its own events, offering community organizations and their clients exclusive access to its pedal boats, kayaks, water trikes, paddleboards, and sailboats.

The Kenosha Community Sailing Center stands as a beacon of community engagement, transforming lives through the joy of sailing and water sports. We invite you to join us in celebrating and supporting this vibrant mission. For more information, please visit our Contact Us page.