Ongoing Projects: Veterans Helping Veterans
Current Volunteer Projects
The S/V PAVITI TERN is being prepared for a future of service to veterans. Some projects are focused on getting her ready for safe time on the water. Others are part of the longer restoration plan that will help the vessel support future sailing, training, and veteran programs.
Preparing the TERN for Summer Sailing
The current priority is to put the TERN back into operating condition and begin preparing suitable veteran volunteers for time aboard the vessel. Work will begin dockside at Bristol Marine and may move toward sailing on Mount Hope Bay, Newport, Block Island, and nearby waters as the vessel and crew become ready.
Project details:
- Inspect and prepare the vessel for summer use
- Organize dockside systems and equipment
- Prepare sails and sailing gear
- Review lines, halyards, sheets, and roller furlers
- Support basic painting, varnishing, and cleanup
- Begin dockside training for veteran volunteers
- Prepare for future daysailing with veterans
Veterans who want to help with this current phase should visit the Volunteer page and submit an inquiry.
Dockside Seamanship Training
Before the TERN takes veterans out on the water, volunteer training will begin dockside. This gives volunteers a chance to learn the vessel, understand basic sailing terms, and build confidence before moving into active sailing.
Training may include:
- Bending sails
- Learning halyards
- Learning sheets
- Line handling
- Roller furlers
- Dock line tying
- Basic navigation
- Boat handling basics
- Safety around the vessel
- Understanding roles aboard the TERN
Veterans who want to help with this current phase should visit the Volunteer page and submit an inquiry.
Preparing for Veteran Daysailing
A major goal for Paviti Tern is to bring veterans onto the water in a safe, meaningful, and respectful way. The first step is building a small crew that can help prepare the boat, assist aboard the vessel, and support other veterans during future daysailing opportunities.
Project goals:
- Identify one to three suitable veteran volunteers for deeper training
- Find a mate to assist aboard the TERN
- Prepare for local sailing on Mount Hope Bay
- Work toward future trips to Newport, Block Island, and nearby waters
- Build confidence and structure before expanding the program
Veterans who want to help with this current phase should visit the Volunteer page and submit an inquiry.
The Benefits of Volunteering
Volunteering with Paviti Tern gives veterans a place to work with purpose, build confidence, and spend time with others who understand the value of service and teamwork. Some veterans may want to work with their hands. Some may want to learn sailing. Some may simply need a place to be useful, calm, and connected again.
Paviti Tern also wants veterans to enjoy life, not just carry its weight. As part of this effort, veterans will have access to an Amesbury fishing skiff with a motor at the Bristol Marine dock on the Taunton River. This gives veterans a way to get out on the water, fish, relax, and enjoy a quiet moment away from the noise of daily life.