When one thinks of the sea, words such as power and awe, intense and majestic, and even serene come to mind. So many things go on in the oceans, seas and waterways from day to day that most of us are unaware.
The likes of Jacques Cousteau plummeting to the depths to uncover new treasures is far from most daily lives, but still his name is not unknown. And yet there are more treasures galore that our mysterious waters around the globe hold in the lives of unknown men and women that live and work on these waters; they are known as seafarers and mariners and are responsible for producing and transporting many goods and services. Oftentimes these brave seafarers are overlooked simply because people are not aware of the work they do.
That’s where, locally, The Seafarer’s Center at the Port of Palm Beach and Aaron Hoffman, Special Projects Manager initiate a special type of work. The Seafarer’s Center exists to mitigate suffering in the lives of these many lonely and isolated men and women.
“Port of Palm Beach Seafarers’ Center is a 501(c)(3) all-volunteer nonprofit charity established to warmly welcome every stranger visiting or working in our port community by offering services that uplift and sustain their personal, physical and spiritual well-being.” Port of Palm Beach website.
Did you know that roughly 90 percent of our goods and services are produced by mariners: men and women from over 80 countries around the globe? Did you know that the Seafarer’s Center, and many centers at ports all over the world, offer hospitality, encouragement, spiritual support, a place to connect with the community and emergency assistance when needed? Did you know you can adopt a ship to support the lives of these sea worthy professionals?
Hoffman is all in when it comes to assisting them. Originally from Toledo, Ohio, Aaron joined the US Coast Guard at age 20 in order to step out of his small town. That’s when his nomadic pace began. For twenty-one years his service in the Coast Guard took him to California, Washington DC, Alaska, and Florida, where he now works. He has been at the Port of Palm Beach for the past nineteen years.
Originally, Hoffman was Harbor Master and currently holds the position of Special Projects Manager. He said that he has “had enough sea time” and spends his time enjoying the Florida weather by land.
Aaron is a member of First Presbyterian Church of North Palm Beach, sings in their choir, and serves on the missions committee. He also enjoys golfing, biking, and playing the Guit-Fiddle.
As a young boy, Hoffman thought of becoming a baseball player yet “God had other plans.” Aaron is also a member of the Gideon Society and says it’s has been a bastion of support with his calling at the Seafarer’s Center.
These seafarers and mariners come from all over the world and are often at the port for just 12-24 hours, so timing is crucial. The center houses a recreation area for their rest and relaxation, as well.
The fulfilling work at the Seafarer’s Center, staffed entirely by volunteers, includes advocating for them in making sure they are being paid on time and that their living quarters are adequate. Since 2016, the Center has been providing opportunities for volunteers to write letters, provide friendship in the hospitality area, and provide other services for the well-being of the seafarers.
Reverend Clayton (Clay) Waddell from the Episcopal Church of Bethesda By the Sea on Palm Beach Island offers spiritual support for the guests of the Seafarer Center (Port Ministry) in both Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale. The Reverend offers Holy Communion to guests requesting it as well.
“Bethesda’s parishioners (and volunteers in the Palm Beach area) participate in this ministry by knitting caps, collecting toiletries during the summer, writing and sending the seafarers cards, donating funds to pay for calling cards, purchasing white socks, and sending care packages while they are away during holidays,” Bethesda by the Sea website.
Reverend Waddell wants to create a legacy operation out of his work at these Port Ministries.
The screen we are using to read this article most likely was transported by a mariner. And that coffee cup and the materials for our desk. As vast as the sea are the items and food we use daily that mariners provide for us. And the Seafarer’s Center at the Port of Palm Beach has room on board for you. So, volunteer, donate, pray or visit today!
Special Note: As you travel, remember to save the soaps, shampoos, conditioners and toothpastes found in your hotel room. These can be donated to the Port Ministry directly or through Bethesda By the Sea.
Aaron Hoffman, Special Projects Manager, Port of Palm Beach
E. [email protected]
T. 561-383-4197
A. One East 11th Street, Suite 600, Riviera Beach, Florida 33404
Deacon Clayton (Clay) Waddell, Episcopal Church of Bethesda By the Sea
T. (561) 655-4555 x130
