President’s Year in Review
It seems like every year I have the wonderful opportunity to say we had another record-
breaking year at CRAB. This year is no different, but with new staff and expanded programming
it created an even more challenging and rewarding experience.
First, we hired two new staff to fill the Manager of Programs and the Manager of Marketing &
Events positions. It was critical to have the new staff trained quickly and efficiently on the new
software systems introduced at the beginning of the year.
Thanks to Rebecca Gonser, V.P. Development for shouldering these duties and assuming roles
and responsibilities far diverse from her role as CRAB’s primary fundraiser. Thankfully, her
three and a half years at CRAB prepared her to tackle this assignment. I would be reporting on
a far different year if it was not for her incredible talent and dedication to CRAB. Thank you,
Rebecca!
What is amazing is that one of the records set this year was for the most cancelled events due
to weather. This ranged from no wind, too much wind, storms, or too hot and humid. If we
had half of these 45 canceled events on the books, we would have broken the 2,000-guest mark
with 62% having a disability. We are still proud to have hosted 113 sailing/boating programs
for 1,755 guests. Only at the premier CRAB Adaptive Boating Center could this level of activity
be achievable. And, our guests still comment on how beautiful the ABC is 3-years after
opening.
Last, but not least, we held the Annual CRAB Holiday & Volunteer Appreciation Party on
December 4 th and we welcomed all volunteers who donated 30 or more hours of their time this
year. It is such a joyous occasion with everyone dressed in their holiday best to meet and share
stories and laughs with fellow volunteers. It was the highlight of the evening to introduce the
Skipper of the Year Steve Palmer who is currently sailing in the Bahamas. We were entertained
by a video of Steve smiling at the helm and thanking CRAB for his well-deserved award. The
unanimous selection for Crew Member of the Year was Mitch Buchman who accepted his
engraved CRAB platter with his usual humility and appreciation.
On behalf of the CRAB Board of Directors and Staff, we wish all volunteers, guests, sponsors,
and grantees a most enjoyable and safe holiday season with family and friends.
Paul “Bo” Bollinger
CRAB President & CEO