About Us

California Inclusive Sailing Christian Buhl is a visionary leader and advocate for inclusive outdoor recreation, serving as the founder and CEO of California Inclusive Sailing (CIS). Growing up in Switzerland, Christian developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors and a passion for sailing. His journey took him to New York and San Francisco, where he honed his skills and expanded his vision for making sailing accessible to everyone, regardless of ability. Christian’s diverse background and international experiences have shaped his inclusive approach to outdoor recreation. With a commitment to breaking down barriers, he established CIS to provide transformative sailing experiences for individuals of all abilities. Under his leadership, CIS has become a beacon of inclusivity, offering programs that promote mental and physical well-being through the joy of sailing. The organization’s motto, “Harness the wind, soak in the sunshine, and lift your spirits,” reflects its mission to uplift and connect people through the power of sailing. In addition to his work with CIS, Christian is an active advocate for sustainability and longevity in outdoor sports. His efforts have not only enriched the lives of participants but have also raised awareness about the importance of inclusive and sustainable practices in the sailing community. Christian Buhl continues to inspire and lead by example, demonstrating the power of inclusive outdoor recreation to uplift and connect people from all walks of life. His dedication to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all sailors is a testament to his unwavering commitment to inclusivity and community building.

JP Van Houden is a dedicated advocate for inclusive outdoor recreation and the co-founder and President of California Inclusive Sailing (CIS). With a lifelong passion for sailing and a commitment to making outdoor activities accessible to all, JP has made significant strides in promoting inclusivity and brain health through innovative programs. In 1999, JP faced a life-altering challenge when he was poisoned, and by 2000, he was officially diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Despite this adversity, JP’s resilience and determination led him to channel his experience into creating opportunities for others to experience the therapeutic benefits of sailing and other outdoor activities. Under JP’s leadership, California Inclusive Sailing has grown into a vibrant community dedicated to harnessing the wind, soaking in the sunshine, and lifting your spirits. His vision for CIS focuses on providing inclusive and accessible sailing experiences that promote mental and physical well-being for individuals of all abilities. JP’s work extends beyond just sailing; he is a vocal advocate for sustainability and longevity in outdoor recreation. He also loves to ride his bicycle and lives by three main rules: nutrition, exercise, and the people you spend time with. His efforts have not only enriched the lives of participants but have also raised awareness about the importance of inclusive and sustainable practices in outdoor sports. With a modern and futuristic approach to non-profit leadership, JP continues to inspire and lead by example, demonstrating the transformative power of inclusive outdoor recreation. In 2015, JP & Christian met Steve Tisch at a school reunion and were gifted a 16’ RS Venture adaptive sailboat. Mr. Tisch’s wish was to call the boat JP. In 2024, JP and Christian met Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley who granted CIS $18,000 per year for sixty years. JP’s motto: Dealing with Parkinsons, one sail at a time.