Building a Community: Inside the Cam-Am Dinghy Cruising Association with Kelly Trafford

For many dinghy cruisers, the joy of the journey often comes from the shared experiences and camaraderie of like-minded adventurers. Kelly Trafford, founder of the Cam-Am Dinghy Cruising Association, saw this potential and took action. In our recent interview, Kelly shared the origin story of the Cam-Am Association—a community dedicated to bringing together small boat sailors from both Canada and the U.S.

Starting a community from scratch wasn’t easy, but Kelly's passion for dinghy cruising and commitment to fostering connections helped the group take off. During our conversation, he offered invaluable advice for anyone looking to build or grow a community. His insights on what has worked best for the Cam-Am Dinghy Cruising Association could inspire other groups looking to connect sailors who might otherwise feel isolated on the water.

Kelly also gave us a behind-the-scenes look at some of the association’s most memorable events. From local meetups to larger gatherings, these occasions have brought members closer together, creating friendships and unforgettable experiences. And the future looks even brighter! Kelly teased some exciting plans for new events and initiatives that promise to keep the association growing.

For dinghy cruisers interested in connecting with others, or anyone curious about building community in the sailing world, our conversation with Kelly Trafford is a must-listen.

Dive into the full episode and hear how one person’s dedication sparked a thriving association that now unites sailors across borders.

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Seas Your Own Adventure 🌊⛵

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Show Notes:

Can-Am Dinghy Cruising Association on Facebook

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