SailAhead Receives $5,000 Donation from 7x24 Exchange Metro NY Chapter

I’m grateful to share that SailAhead recently received a $5,000 donation from the 7x24 Exchange Metro NY Chapter, a group whose commitment to service extends far beyond the world of data centers and infrastructure.

On November 2, Maya and I traveled into New York City to attend the chapter’s holiday gathering, where the donation was formally announced. The event brought together roughly 50 members, creating a space that felt equal parts professional and deeply human. I had the opportunity to speak briefly about SailAhead’s mission, our impact, and the veterans who make this community what it is. I introduced Our Mates and shared several of their stories, which were met with a deeply emotional response.

What stood out most that evening were the conversations that followed. Several veterans working within the organization shared personal stories, challenges, and moments of connection that reinforced why SailAhead exists in the first place. Those exchanges—emotional and genuine—are a reminder that healing doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in community and through interaction with caring people.

This connection was made possible through Bryan Cotton, a former Royal Engineer and longtime friend of SailAhead. Bryan has sailed with us as early as 2015 and has remained a steady advocate for our work over the years. His belief in SailAhead, and his effort to bring this mission into his professional community, speaks volumes about the bonds formed on the water and the responsibility we feel to one another long after the sails come down.

Sean Duclay, Bryan Cotton, and Maya Duclay

We are deeply grateful to the 7x24 Exchange Metro NY Chapter for their generosity and belief in our mission. Their support directly helps us continue using sailing and brotherhood to support veterans navigating the invisible wounds of service.

If you believe in this work and want to help us reach more veterans, we invite you to consider making a donation and becoming part of the SailAhead community.

Make a Donation!