Freedom Waters Foundation

Waves of Healing and Growth Across Southwest Florida

Freedom Waters Foundation stands as a beacon of hope, inclusion, and well-being for children and adults with disabilities, veterans, and those facing life challenges. Founded in 2006, Freedom Waters Foundation began as a local mission and has grown into a far-reaching nonprofit that delivers thousands of therapeutic boating experiences annually to people who might otherwise never know the joys of life on the water. On any given outing, laughter replaces worry and hope replaces hardship. Small and large group boating events, adaptive sailing lessons, and fishing tournaments bring together individuals from all backgrounds, creating opportunities for healing, accomplishment, and friendship.

At the heart of FWF’s programs are compassion and partnership. Thanks to private and commercial boat owners and the dedication of hundreds of trained volunteers, these transformative moments are accessible to participants regardless of physical or financial barriers. Young people with life-threatening illnesses find courage and freedom from hospital routines, families reconnect in a peaceful setting, and veterans are welcomed aboard for moments of joy and community. The vision is simple: everyone deserves the chance to experience the water’s healing power.

“I am forever grateful for all involved in the organization added Co-Founder Debra Frenkel. Freedom Waters Foundation is making positive waves in so many places—South Florida, Georgia, Indiana, and this year, Missouri. From our crew to our over 600 volunteers, including our board of directors and advisory boards, we are all committed to sharing freedom and joy on and off the water.”

Freedom Waters Foundation's impact is wide and meaningful: the organization delivers over 5,300 on-the-water opportunities each year. Participants report boosts in health, wellness, mood, and a restored sense of belonging. Volunteers describe newfound inspiration and unity as captains, crew, and land supporters come together with a shared purpose. Events are crafted thoughtfully, ensuring accessibility, safety, and dignity for every guest—from adaptive sailing and veterans’ gatherings to joyful holiday parades and fishing tournaments.

“Our goal is to expand our reach and bring the transformative power of therapeutic boating to even more people in need,” added CEO David Bakelman. “Each donation and volunteer hour extends the circle of hope—we see entire families renewed, and children and adults who once felt isolated now connected and uplifted.”

Freedom Waters Foundation partners with local hospitals, social service agencies, and private boat owners to ensure each experience is safe, accessible, and personalized. All programs are provided at no cost to participants, removing barriers for families facing financial or medical challenges. The foundation also celebrates diversity, welcoming people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, and providing bilingual resources to reach even more residents.

Looking ahead, the organization plans to increase annual boating experiences to at least 6,000 and recruit 100 additional volunteers. Community members are invited to learn more, attend upcoming events, or join the volunteer team—knowing that every act of kindness helps expand the waves of healing throughout Collier County and beyond.

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For more information or to learn more, visit freedomwatersfoundation.org.