The St. Joseph Jr. Foundation Sailing School located at 7 Lighthouse Lane, St. Joseph, MI will be holding an open house on Sunday July 2, 2023 from 4-6pm dedicating the completion of its Bill Campbell Pavilion.

The pavilion was originally envisioned by the foundation in 1997 when it moved to its current location within the West Basin Marina. The proposed design consisted of a river platform constructed with roof overhead. Budget constraints at the time limited the construction to an open platform. Major donations made by Bill’s daughter, Ann Campbell in 2021-22, followed by many other contributors, made the completion of this structure with a roof overhead a reality. The pavilion will serve as an additional classroom and observation deck for students and parents and will provide shelter from the elements.

This open house is timely as this year is also the Foundation’s 70th year in operation since it was incorporated as a 501 (c3) non-profit in 1953. Since then, over 8,500 youth and adults have been instructed in sailing and water safety, and have gained an appreciation and respect for the community’s precious natural resource, the waters of Lake Michigan.

Bill Campbell was the Foundation’s first Director, an avid world sailor, past foundation president, and board member.

Short presentations at 5 pm and light refreshments will be provided. This event is free and open to the public.