Vision: A vivid picture of some point in the imaginable future, described in the present tense, as if already happening. The picture depicted is of a desired state or situation in sufficient detail to convey observable, measurable goals. It should be aspirational, not overly constrained by the present situation. The depictions it covers should inspire donors, crew, visitors, guests, parents, vendors.
A picture of Spirit of South Carolina in the near future, could look like this:
Adopting the best models of Traditionally Rigged Wooden Sailing Ship organizations: Spirit of South Carolina has sought out, listened to, and benefited from experiences of successful tall ship syndicates that have weather past years of economic downturns, epidemics, and political turbulence.
Expanded Programs: Spirit of South Carolina recognizes that, in order to generate revenue for sustainability and to support our youth programs, our participation target has expanded. We are now involving adults and the general public in offering customized Tall Ship experiences and social events, with an underlying educational theme. Wherever the schooner sails or berths, her marketing campaign goes with her, touching those audiences.
Serve the State, and Focus on the Youth: Spirit of South Carolina's "raison d'etre" has always focused and will continue to focus on South Carolina's youth. They are the future of our State. To that end, we are partnering with the South Carolina Aquarium, the International African American Museum, College of Charleston, Secondary Schools, Boy Scouts, and other State-wide educational institutions offering tall ships experiences in scale from afternoons, overnights, to weekend, and longer cruises.
Home in Charleston, Spirit of South Carolina is taking a highly visible, prominent role in the revitalization of Union Pier as a City attraction showcasing the Low Country's Maritime Heritage. She is often seen docked at that location, drawing visitors as well as local population to the area, offering tours, dockside attractions or taking on passengers for harbor cruises and onboard enrichment experiences.
Other Ports of Call : On cruises, Spirit of South Carolina always has the gangway out, offering shipboard tours for a fee, dockside presentations, and outreach to the local tourism board. Depending on the duration of the Port Call, she is offering harbor cruises for revenue.
At Sea. Daily life onboard for crew is a constant training opportunity, with experienced deckhands evaluated on their engagement with less experienced deckhands or guest crew, continuously coaching in ship maintenance, marlinspike skills, ship-handling, and seamanship.
Professional Development-Crew, Staff, Volunteers: The humans not only operate the organization, they are building the brand. They are growing competencies that enhance the organization's effectiveness and efficiency. They provide the continuity for succession and turn-over. The support they are given is not an expense, it's an investment, whether in payroll, training, by-name recognition, certificates, or T-shirts.
Governance: Our Board of Directors is engaged and are the ship's biggest fans. They are frequent visitors aboard. They are recognized and appreciated by the organization for their involvement, generosity, and demonstrated advocacy to the Charleston, South Carolina, and beyond.
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