This one's personal. If you're looking to support an organization that takes care of its people, please consider donating any amount to CRI. I feel personally indebted to CRI for the support it has shown to its coaching staff and members over the last year, despite operating at a fraction of its capacity because of COVID.

Speaking for myself, this community has helped me through a really tough year. I know a lot of others who would say the same thing. Being connected to a group of people working to improve themselves is one of the most valuable things anyone could ask for, and that's what CRI gives to hundreds of people each year. 

It has been interesting to observe our recent return to team boats. We've gone from everyone showing up to the boathouse at different times in small, isolated groups, to nearly all the programs running together like it was before (with distancing and masks of course). This Spring's return to the water and team boats has been joyous; and there's a bit of a different vibe around the boathouse.

I see all these small things happening; a rower noticing someone needs help carrying a boat without being asked; eye contact and greetings between strangers; coaches being excited for each other's practices. Not that these things didn't happen before; it just feels like after a year of Zoom practices in living rooms and basements, we don't take each other for granted quite as much.

CRI is an extremely important place to a lot of people, and it relies on donations from people like you to maintain our fleet, facility, pay our coaches, and provide this priceless service to the Greater Boston area. Thank you for your support! Every little bit helps.