New Horizons Start Here
HURTS empowers under-resourced young people through the transformative experience of sailing and outdoor adventures. More than a program, it’s a journey—one that builds confidence, resilience, and real-world skills on the open water and beyond.
New Horizons Start Here
HURTS empowers under-resourced young people through the transformative experience of sailing and outdoor adventures. More than a program, it’s a journey—one that builds confidence, resilience, and real-world skills on the open water and beyond.
Where We Came From
The roots of HURTS stretch back to the 1970s, when Dr. Philip Ney—psychiatrist and passionate sailor—pioneered three influential programs: West Trek, SALTS, and Adventure Ship.
These programs; spanning from British Columbia to Hong Kong, blended wilderness and sea travel to support personal growth.
In the 2000s, HURTS acquired Horizons Unbound, a distinctively rigged 85-foot schooner that became a familiar coastal sight. For over 15 years, it ran summer voyages where youth and families learned seamanship, navigation, and teamwork. Though the ship was retired in 2024, the program’s spirit lives on.
Where We Are Going
Our Mission
Expand the horizons of all young people and facilitate personal and social growth through sail training and wilderness adventures.
Our Vision
Rehabilitation and growth for all youth who struggle with addictions, mental health conflicts, and the breakdown of families.
Our Active Programs
Our programs use sailing and outdoor education to teach confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Each course is designed to meet young people where they’re at—with the right challenge, structure, and support to help them grow. Rehabilitation and growth for all youth who struggle with addictions, mental health conflicts, and the breakdown of families.
Day-Sail Programs
Whether you’re just beginning or looking to sharpen your skills, our Day-Sail Programs offer hands-on learning and adventure for all experience levels. Start with the fundamentals in Level I, build confidence and technique in Level II, and set out on an unforgettable full-day voyage in Level III. Each session blends on-shore instruction with on-the-water practice—guided by experienced instructors focused on safety, teamwork, and fun.
Challenge Adventures
Challenge Adventures are designed for those ready to go beyond the basics and dive into multi-day experiences that test endurance, deepen skills, and create lasting memories. Whether you're trekking rugged coastal trails or sailing through BC’s breathtaking waterways, these adventures are all about growth—physically, mentally, and spiritually. Each program offers a unique blend of challenge, camaraderie, and discovery.
Mount Joy College Training
Mount Joy College offers transformative training for those called to serve with skill, compassion, and resilience. Whether you're supporting youth through trauma, pursuing professional development in counseling, or stepping into leadership through hands-on volunteer roles, our programs combine theory, practice, and mentorship. Each pathway is designed to prepare individuals for the meaningful, effective service in challenging but vital roles.
Help Someone Step Onboard
Every young person we work with gets access to sailing, mentorship, and real-life learning—regardless of what they can afford. Your donation directly funds that access.
What Your Support Can Cover
If you prefer to donate by cheque or through another method, please get in touch with us to make arrangements.
More Ways to Support
It’s not just about donations—there are real, hands-on ways to help. Here’s how to get involved.
Gifts in Kind
Got gear or supplies to donate? Check with us to see what’s needed—we’ll let you know what’s useful.
Volunteer
Want to get hands-on? Contact us to find out which volunteer roles are open and where we need extra help.
Join Our Society
Join our society for $20/year to support HURTS through our AGM, fundraising, and key decisions.
More Ways to Support
It’s not just about donations—there are real, hands-on ways to help. Here’s how to get involved.
Gifts in Kind
Got gear or supplies to donate? Check with us to see what’s needed—we’ll let you know what’s useful.
Volunteer
Want to get hands-on? Contact us to find out which volunteer roles are open and where we need extra help.
Join Our Society
Join our society for $20/year to support HURTS through our AGM, fundraising, and key decisions.
Day-Sail Programs
Whether you’re just beginning or looking to sharpen your skills, our Day-Sail Programs offer hands-on learning and adventure for all experience levels. Start with the fundamentals in Level I, build confidence and technique in Level II, and set out on an unforgettable full-day voyage in Level III. Each session blends on-shore instruction with on-the-water practice—guided by experienced instructors focused on safety, teamwork, and fun.
Challenge Adventures
Challenge Adventures are designed for those ready to go beyond the basics and dive into multi-day experiences that test endurance, deepen skills, and spark lifelong memories. Whether you're trekking rugged coastal trails or sailing through BC’s breathtaking waterways, these adventures are all about growth—physically, mentally, and spiritually. Each program offers a unique blend of challenge, camaraderie, and discovery.
Mount Joy College Training
Mount Joy College offers transformative training for those called to serve with skill, compassion, and resilience. Whether you're supporting youth through trauma, pursuing professional development in counseling, or stepping into leadership through hands-on volunteer roles, our programs combine theory, practice, and mentorship. Each pathway is designed to prepare individuals for the meaningful, effective service in challenging but vital roles.
Help Someone Step Onboard
Every young person we work with gets access to sailing, mentorship, and real-life learning—regardless of what they can afford. Your donation directly funds that access.
What Your Support Can Cover
$50
$100
For personal flotation device
For 2 days of sailing lesson (level I and II)
$600
$2,500
Full scholarship for one youth (Levels I-IV plus Hike/Sail Adventure)
Covers one young person going through the full graduated volunteer program
If you prefer to donate by cheque or through another method, please get in touch with us to make arrangements.
More Ways to Support
It’s not just about donations—there are real, hands-on ways to help. Here’s how to get involved.
Gifts in Kind
Got gear or supplies to donate? Check with us to see what’s needed—we’ll let you know what’s useful.
Volunteer
Want to get hands-on? Contact us to find out which volunteer roles are open and where we need extra help.
Join Our Society
Join our society for $20/year to support HURTS through our AGM, fundraising, and key decisions.
Horizons Unbound Rehabilitation and Training Society
Registered charity in Canada - BN 13359 3939 RR 0001
Contact us