The Los Angeles Maritime Institute announced yesterday that it has been honored with a prestigious 2013 Top-Rated Award by GreatNonprofits, the leading provider of user reviews about nonprofit organizations.

“We are excited to be named a Top-Rated 2013 Nonprofit,” says Martyn Clark, Executive Director of the Los Angeles Maritime Institute.  “This year marks the 20^th Anniversary of our TopSail Youth Program, so the timing of the award adds another accomplishment to our celebratory year.”

The Top-Rated Nonprofit award was based on the large number of positive reviews that Los Angeles Maritime Institute received – reviews written by volunteers, donors and clients. People posted their personal experience with the nonprofit.  For example, one person wrote, “I have been a volunteer for 20 years, and to see these kids grow up and become adults is life changing. When you see the looks on their faces when they see the ocean for the first time, it makes it worthwhile. It's hard to understand how these kids grow up living in areas where they are scared to take a walk around the block or even play outside. With LAMI, these kids learn that they can do anything. They learn that if you have a dream, go for it. Become a volunteer and see what I am talking about. It only takes a little bit of your time each month.”

While the Top-Rated Awards run through the end of October, Los Angeles Maritime Institute was part of the inaugural group to qualify for the year.

“Savvy donors want to see the impact of their donations more than ever,” said Perla Ni, CEO of GreatNonprofits, “People with direct experience with Los Angeles Maritime Institute have voted that the organization is making a real difference.”

Being on the Top-Rated list gives donors and volunteers more confidence that this is a credible organization.  The reviews by volunteers, clients and other donors show the on-the-ground results of this nonprofit.  This award is a form of recognition by the community.

About Los Angeles Maritime Institute

Los Angeles Maritime Institute (LAMI) uses sail training to provide youth with real-life challenges that develop knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to live healthy, productive lives. Since its founding in 1992, LAMI has served over 50,000 young people throughout the Greater Los Angeles Area. The organization designates 180 sailing days each year for inner city youth to participate in the TopSail Youth Program free of charge. www.lamitopsail.org

About GreatNonprofits

GreatNonprofits is the leading site for donors and volunteers to find reviews and ratings of nonprofits. Reviews on the site influence 30 million donation decisions a year. www.greatnonprofits.org