GreenFleet, Inc. was incorporated on February 7, 2009 in New Bedford, Massachusetts “To promote growth, empowerment, education, self-esteem, personal responsibility, and environmental stewardship in urban, at-risk youth and the community at large through boatbuilding and on-the-water experiences.”

GreenFleet provides a comprehensive experience in which urban, at-risk youth build their own boat using locally-sourced, sustainable, and ecologically-sensitive materials, are trained in responsible watercraft operation, and then utilize the boats they build to connect to their community, environment, and history.  GreenFleet’s primary target audience is middle and high school students and our goal is to provide a positive, alternative experience during after school hours and summer vacation when this age group is most vulnerable to distraction and negative influences.  In an effort to foster the development of well-rounded, civic-minded, and successful world citizens, GreenFleet will also institute a mentoring program.  Throughout the GreenFleet experience, staff and community volunteers will serve as mentors.  After several semesters, as the first groups of students “graduate” to more advanced skill levels, the mentoring program will be expanded to include a peer to peer component, where older students are paired with those just entering the program.  Finally, one of the primary objectives of GreenFleet is to provide job skills and an introduction to the vast array of maritime trades found in New Bedford and adjacent seaport communities.  GreenFleet looks to two established boatbuilding and on-the-water education programs on the eastern seaboard as models and for inspiration.  They are Rocking the Boat based in the Bronx, New York and the Compass Project located in Portland, Maine.

 The goals of GreenFleet are to:

• Develop a skilled work force
• Increase self esteem
• Reinforce personal responsibility
• Foster self reliance
• Facilitate personal growth
• Encourage physical activity
• Support academic curriculum
• Promote teamwork
• Teach environmental stewardship
• Instill civic pride
• Create world citizens

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