Celebrating Growth, Community, and Meaningful Outcomes
Discover how Duxbury Bay Maritime School made a difference in 2025. This page shares our first annual Impact Report, a reflection of the outcomes, experiences, and measurable change created through DBMS programs over the past year. More than a list of activities, this report focuses on what changed, who was impacted, and why it matters.
In 2025, DBMS expanded adaptive and access-focused programming, deepened community partnerships, and received statewide recognition for veteran and youth initiatives. These milestones reflect not only growth, but a continued commitment to serving our community with intention, inclusion, and impact.
Below, you’ll find highlights, stories, and data that illustrate how DBMS connects people of all ages, abilities, and means to Duxbury Bay and how that connection translates into meaningful outcomes for individuals and the community as a whole.
Continue reading below or read the full 2025 Impact Report.
Ali Spolsino, Executive Director
Our Impact on People, Community and the Bay
What participants and families tell us about the difference DBMS makes… Measured, shared and deeply felt!
Overall Impact
Participants report DBMS has a POSITIVE IMPACT on their lives.
Skills and Mastery
Improved their on-water and/or marine science skills.
Community
Feel a strong sense of belonging while at DBMS.
Connection
Report a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Joy and FUN
Experienced fun, excitement, awe and wonder through programs.
Confidence
Increase their confidence, enhanced character growth and lasting benefit.
How This Impact Was Measured
To ensure this report reflects objective, meaningful outcomes, DBMS partnered with Wellspring Consulting, an independent firm with deep expertise in nonprofit strategy and evaluation. By grounding this report in participant voice and third-party guidance, we are confident that the data presented here offers an honest and meaningful picture of DBMS’s impact in 2025.
Belong…
“DBMS has given me a feeling of belonging that I had not found anywhere else after immigrating almost 25 years ago.”
Grow…
“Our children have been involved since they were in preschool. DBMS has had the single biggest impact on their lives, more than school or any other activity. From their experiences as both students and now teachers, they’ve gained skills, but more importantly, they’ve gained a lifelong community.”
Thrive…
“After a challenging experience elsewhere, my daughter found in rowing a community that is both inclusive and fun. She’s built wonderful friendships, improved her athletic ability, and, best of all, found a place where she truly thrives.”
Creating Opportunity on The Water
Participants across all programs connected with the Bay
Staff members make all of these connections possible
Offered in free programming through our outreach
Youth scholarships awarded through donor support
Total Program Hours
108,758
Total Program Seats
5,839
Youth Scholarships Awarded Through Donor Support
The growth of DBMS’s scholarship program reflects the generosity of our donor community. Donor support has allowed DBMS to significantly expand access to programs, ensuring that financial need does not limit participation or opportunity on the water.
Participants awarded in 2025
Average award in 2025
Support Impact Like This!
Your support ensures DBMS continues connecting people of all ages, abilities and means to Duxbury Bay and positively impacts their lives well beyond it.