The 19th-century coastal lifesaving tradition was one of fearlessness in the face of staggering challenges. Just as rocky shoals threatened the lives of mariners 100 years ago, poverty, crime, urban warfare, racism and social alienation are persistent threats to today's youth. The sea can teach them powerful lessons. This Museum offers lifelines to youths 11 through 18, in the form of rugged, traditional rowing boats that harness energies behind an oar, and teach focused, motivated skills and resources to help navigate the difficult waters of adolescence and adulthood. The Museum's "Home Waters Initiative" utilizes Boston Harbor as an outdoor classroom, teaching rowing, sailing, navigation, boat-building and maintenance, to develop team spirit, leadership, and understanding of personal and group responsibilities and privileges. The program's core activities are based in the Museum's city boathouse, the Navy Yard Rowing Center in the National Park at the Charlestown Navy Yard, and in the Museum's South Shore boathouse, the Marine Skills Workshop at Windmill Point in Hull. These people are teaching youth to learn from metaphors. Won't you help a great idea with your own contribution?