Membership Types

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The Lake Charles Sail & Power Squadron, located in southwest Louisiana, is a proud member of America's Boating Club, which comprises over 450 squadrons across the United States Power Squadrons (USPS). It's important to note that USPS operates independently and is not part of, or supported by, the U.S. Government. The term "Power Squadron" has historical roots dating back to our founding in 1914 by the powerboat division of the Boston Yacht Club. Initially starting as a club within a club, USPS has evolved into a private, self-supporting organization that thrives with members across 33 districts nationwide. Recognized as the world's largest non-profit boating organization, USPS has been honored by three presidents for its significant civic contributions. Our squadrons extend from Puerto Rico to Tokyo, welcoming a diverse range of boats and sailors. The primary mission of America's Boating Club and USPS is to enhance boating safety through education and community service, making our boating membership invaluable for enthusiasts everywhere.

Our members are boating families who contribute to the community by promoting safe boating through education as part of America's Boating Club. We have been offering boating safety courses ever since, and these courses are open to the public with no age limit for participants. Our educational program is dedicated to making boating safer and more enjoyable, teaching classes in seamanship, navigation, and related subjects. Additionally, our members assist the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in keeping our nautical charts accurate by reporting chart corrections. We also offer a free vessel inspection program for boaters in our community, which is a valuable benefit of our boating membership. Throughout the year, we organize many activities for members of the Lake Charles Sail & Power Squadron, including cruises, rendezvous, navigation contests, and other social events. Activities ashore feature meetings with marine programs, parties, dinners, picnics, and field trips.

As a member of America's Boating Club, you will be part of the largest boating organization in the world. You will have access to a comprehensive educational program that is free to our boating membership. Being part of an organization rich in experience and knowledge will help you and your family become better and safer boaters. The United States Power Squadrons (USPS) offers many benefits to their members.

The objectives of the Lake Charles Sail & Power Squadron (LCSPS) align closely with those of USPS. Many LCSPS members actively support the USPS three-fold program. They contribute to the squadron's civic efforts, with the highlight being the presentation of The Squadron Boating Course, which has benefited thousands of residents in the Lake Charles area over the past 25 years.

LCSPS members also engage in a cooperative program with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to update nautical charts. According to NOAA estimates, USPS has saved taxpayers millions of dollars over the years through its contributions to these vital programs.

The Vessel Safety Check (VSC) program, a joint initiative with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, has helped hundreds of boaters in the Lake Charles area ensure their boats meet federal and local safety standards. Members of the Lake Charles Sail & Power Squadron refine their boating skills through eleven USPS marine-related courses taught by fellow members. Last but not least, LCSPS members enjoy the camaraderie that comes from participating in a variety of social activities on both land and water.

Lake Charles Sail & Power Squadron operates under bylaws that align with those of America's Boating Club, the United States Power Squadrons, and the regulations set by District 21 and the Louisiana Secretary of State.

The members of Lake Charles Sail & Power Squadron form the essential backbone of our organization. Active Members constitute the ruling body of the squadron, and reports are presented by both elected officers and appointed committee chairpersons. The report from the Nominating Committee, combined with nominations from the floor, initiates the election process for the slate of officers for the upcoming year.

The Squadron Elected Officers, collectively known as 'The Squadron Bridge,' include the Squadron Commander (Cdr), who serves as the highest-ranking officer, supported by five Squadron Lieutenant Commanders (Lt/C)—the Executive Officer, the Educational Officer, the Administrative Officer, the Secretary, and the Treasurer. Additionally, Lake Charles Sail & Power Squadron elects an Assistant Squadron Educational Officer, an Assistant Secretary, and an Assistant Squadron Treasurer, who fulfill their roles as 1st Lieutenants (1st Lt) but are not part of the bridge.

During the Annual Meeting, four General Committees—Audit, Nominating, Rules, and Planning—are elected, with reports made to the Membership. Each year, the senior member of every committee steps down, allowing for the election of a new member, ensuring continuity and engagement within the committees.

The Squadron Executive Committee consists of the Squadron Commander, the five Squadron Lieutenant Commanders, the immediate Past Commander, and several members-at-large elected by the membership. Members-at-Large are typically drawn from the most active participants in the squadron, including both new members and seasoned 'old-timers.' This committee convenes ten times a year as a 'Board of Directors' to oversee the business affairs of the squadron.

Five Standing Committees report directly to the Executive Committee. The Commander appoints the members of these committees with the Executive Committee's approval. The committees include Finance, Law, Personnel, Supply, and Property, all integral to the effective functioning of our boating membership.