The Salvation Army of New London
Since 2021, NESS and The Salvation Army of New London have worked together to provide students with transformative experiences that build confidence, inspire curiosity, and expand what's possible for their future.
Helping Students Discover What's Possible
While NESS and The Salvation Army of New London serve students in different ways, we share a common goal: helping students and families see beyond the challenges immediately in front of them and discover what's possible.
The Salvation Army provides critical support services, mentorship, and safe spaces for students and families throughout the year. NESS complements that work by connecting students with hands-on science, sailing, and adventure-based learning experiences that build confidence, resilience, and leadership.
Together, we're creating opportunities that help students realize their potential and imagine a future that may have once seemed out of reach.
Investing in Students Strengthens Our Community
When we invest in students, we're not just supporting individual success stories; we're strengthening our entire community.
Through this partnership, students gain access to experiences that foster:
- Confidence & self-esteem
- Leadership development
- Teamwork & communication skills
- Problem-solving & resilience
- STEM learning & environmental awareness
- Positive relationships with mentors & peers
These experiences help prepare students to become future leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, advocates, and engaged citizens.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
For many Salvation Army students, their first experience aboard a sailboat or stepping foot in the water happens through NESS.
The ocean has a unique way of teaching lessons that extend far beyond the water. Students learn teamwork, communication, leadership, and trust while navigating real-world challenges in an exciting and supportive environment.
Many students arrive unsure of themselves. By the end of a program, they often leave with newfound confidence, stronger relationships, and a greater belief in what they can accomplish.
We've seen students who were hesitant to step onto a boat become leaders among their peers. We've seen curiosity turn into passion and experiences turn into aspirations.
Honored with the Red Shield Community Impact Award
In 2026, NESS was honored to receive the Red Shield Community Impact Award from the Salvation Army of New London.
The award recognizes individuals and organizations whose dedication, compassion, and leadership have made a lasting difference in the lives of students and families in the community. Inspired by the mission of the Red Shield Youth Center, it celebrates those who create safe spaces, nurture potential, expand opportunities, and help others grow beyond their circumstances.
For NESS, this recognition is especially meaningful because it comes from a partner we deeply admire and respect.
The award reflects not only the impact of NESS, but the strength of a partnership built on a shared belief that every student deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
We are grateful to the Salvation Army of New London for this honor and proud of what we've accomplished together. Most importantly, we're excited about the opportunities that still lie ahead for the students we serve.
As part of the Red Shield Community Impact Award presentation, The Salvation Army of New London produced two videos highlighting the partnership between our organizations and the transformative experiences made possible for local students. We are honored by this recognition and grateful for the opportunity to work alongside an organization so deeply committed to strengthening our community and expanding opportunities for students and families.
