We nurture resilience. We build community.
The Alexandria Seaport Foundation works with young adults (ages 18-23) who need a new start. They are separated from education systems, the workforce, and/or their communities. They may have dropped out of school, been unable to find work, been involved in the criminal justice system, have mental health challenges or different learning styles, and/or have family care-giving responsibilities. They typically come from unstable home environments. They are all seeking brighter futures for themselves and their families.
Through Seaport’s six-month, paid program our apprentices gain skills, confidence, and community. They get an introduction to woodworking, boat building, boating, sailing, and facilities maintenance. More generally, they learn project planning, teamwork, employability skills, and personal skills. We introduce them to a range of potential career paths and work with them to identify options that are good fits with their interests and abilities.
We are currently accepting applications for the crew that will start on June 30. Once an applicant has completed the on-line application, a graduate will call the person to talk with them about the program, expectations, and potential fit.
The only requirements are that applicants be at least 18 (or will turn 18 by August) and not older than 23 when they apply. We prioritize applicants who will benefit the most from participating because 1) their other options are limited due to some significant barrier (lack of resources, support, high school diploma, neurodivergence) or justice system involvement and 2) they have at least some interest in exploring trades-based jobs.
The Seaport Foundation’s important work takes place at the McIlhenny Seaport Center, our iconic floating building on Old Town Alexandria’s waterfront. This location serves as a beacon to the community reflecting the work of the Foundation, and a soothing, beautiful environment in which apprentices can learn, heal, and look toward the future with hope and inspiration.
The Seaport Center is a hive of activity, with apprentices, staff, volunteers and the community at large all working together to ensure a brighter path for our apprentices. The Apprentice Program runs Monday thru Friday, 9:00AM 4:00PM.
We invite you to stop by for a visit and meet some of the apprentices who are impacted by the Seaport Foundation’s nationally recognized program
We impact lives.
Apprentices, families, volunteers, community members, visitors.
Every day, the Seaport Foundation’s work impacts someone’s life.
We call it the Ripple Effect.