The purpose of the Santa Cruz Sailing Foundation is to provide opportunities for all persons under 21 years of age to learn to sail and to participate in sailing and sail boat racing activities. Participation and support for sailing education, training and competition is open to anyone under the specified maximum age limit.

The sources of funding for these support activities include the annual Santa Cruz Yacht Club Gift Request, in memoriam gifts, donation of boats and regatta sponsorships. All funding and program decisions are made by the foundation's five-member Board of Directors.