Members Pitching In, One Project at a Time Keeps Thames Yacht Club Shipshape
The buzz of two hand sanders filled the air on a beautiful Sunday afternoon as Thames Yacht Club members Ken and Nancy Edwards rolled up their sleeves to give the beach picnic tables a fresh new look.
Beach members for 28 years, the Edwards spent the afternoon sanding weathered picnic tables before giving them a bright coat of red stain—one small project that will be enjoyed by members and families for seasons to come.
“We had the supplies at home, we live close by, and it’s something we could do to help improve our club,” said Ken. “We had a few hours free, so we came down and got to work.”
For Ken and Nancy, volunteering isn’t about taking on a huge project—it’s about doing what you can, when you can.
When asked what keeps them coming back to TYC year after year, their answer came easily.
“It’s an extension of our backyard,” they said. “We have this beautiful beachfront property right down the street, surrounded by good people. It’s the best place for kids to grow up. Ours learned to sail and spent entire days on the beach making lifelong memories.”
The Edwards hope their afternoon project inspires other members to lend a hand.
“We all have busy lives, but there’s always something you can do,” they said. “It doesn’t have to be a big commitment. If you have a couple of hours, you can make a real difference. Every little bit helps, and when everyone pitches in, our club becomes an even better place for all of us.”
Volunteer projects like refurbishing the picnic tables help keep TYC looking its best while building the sense of community that makes the club so special. Whether it’s painting, landscaping, cleaning up, helping at an event, sweeping the sand out of the clubhouse or tackling other small projects, every contribution—large or small—helps strengthen the club we all enjoy.
“Thames Yacht Club has always been built on the time, talents, and generosity of its members. We’re a volunteer club, and this club belongs to all of us. Whether you can spare a few hours, join a work party, or take on a larger project, every contribution makes a difference. I encourage everyone to pitch in, lend a hand, and help keep TYC the special place we all enjoy,” said TYC Commodore Colin Redhead.
If you’ve been thinking about getting involved, take a cue from Ken and Nancy. A few hours of your time can leave a lasting impact and help ensure that Thames Yacht Club remains a place where members, families, and future generations can continue making memories for years to come.
If you are unsure about what needs to be done, contact TYC Commodore Colin Redhead at commodore@thamesyc.org