August 27, 2026
Dear Friends,
Over the past several years, we have accomplished something extraordinary together. We completed a stem-to-stern restoration of the Western Flyer, brought the vessel home to Monterey Bay, led expeditions to the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Northwest, and served thousands of students and community members.
But this progress has not come without challenges.
Over the past year, changes in the government funding landscape, rising operating costs, and other anticipated support that did not materialize have created significant financial pressure. We have responded by reducing expenses, making painful cuts to our small team, postponing our planned 2027 return to the Gulf of California, and focusing our resources for now on student programs in Monterey Bay.
But we cannot close the gap through cuts alone. To protect the progress we have made and ensure the Western Flyer’s renewed mission continues, we need the help of our community.
That is why we are launching a one-time $1 million stabilization campaign, separate from our regular annual fundraising. This campaign will provide essential working capital, reduce short-term debt, and begin building an operating reserve, putting the Foundation on a stronger, more sustainable footing.
Thanks to several generous early commitments, we are already more than halfway to our $1 million goal. I’m incredibly grateful to share that a generous couple has now offered a $250,000 matching challenge to help us close the remaining gap. Every gift to this special campaign will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $250,000!
The Western Flyer has been given an extraordinary second life. Our responsibility now is to carry its remarkable legacy forward for generations to come.
If you are reading this, I know the Western Flyer means something to you. I hope you will make a special gift today. Your regular support sustains our work. This additional investment will help secure the Foundation’s future and keep the legendary vessel at work, inspiring a new generation through science, exploration, and the arts.
With gratitude,
Sherry Flumerfelt
Executive Director
Western Flyer Foundation
P.S. A gift of $100 or more makes you a Western Flyer Foundation member for one year, with opportunities to stay connected to the vessel and our work. Learn More.
Posted in In The Press