Mount Pleasant Magazine 6.4

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time they expand into even greater
territory. In late July, campers will not
only draw and construct boats but
also explore the Port Royal Sound.
Through naturalist activities, ecology,
arts and boat safety courses, campers
gain a greater understanding and con-
fidence around the water. Rowing out
on the Chechessee River, they begin
to truly see all their hard work pay off.
“The response has been incred-
ible,” said Brower. “We started this
program with a few guys taking time
to go to Sanders Clyde Elementary
each afternoon to teach boat building.
We had never done it before, and we
weren’t sure how it would go.”
Brower was basically born and
bred for his job. His childhood was
one splashed in salt water and epic
views. From teaching sailing at the
age of 15 to being a crewmember of
Charleston’s own Carolina Girl yacht,
his experience in boating runs deep.
“My father took us kids cruis-
ing in the Northeast. We sailed from
Bermuda back to the states and all
over,” said Brower. “We also had a
little 13-foot Boston Whaler when I
was young.”
When he wasn’t on dry land,
Brower could be found exploring
the waterways rich with wildlife
and taking in postcard-worthy
sunsets. He feels fortunate to be
able to offer similar experiences
to children who otherwise would
never have the chance.
“We’re able to provide a unique
opportunity both for ourselves and
our students. The process isn’t short,”
said Brower. “As the boat begins to
come together, the students get a fresh
wave of excitement. Then we prime,
then we get to paint, then names go
on. As we get closer to launching, we
start talking about the water more and
students get more excited.”
Brower and his team would like
to start implementing these types of
programs throughout the Southeast.
Seeing the positive impact it has had on
local children has inspired him to take
additional steps to reach more kids in
need of quality time spent on the water.
“We believe the water is our com-
mon bond; it’s what makes our region
unique. It is our identity,” said Brower.
“I’d like to see communities from
Georgetown to Savannah celebrating
our common culture and heritage.
Eventually we’d like to see our pro-
grams throughout the region.”
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