Boathouse began in 1973 as a small business in the Canadian city of St. Catharines, Ontario. Known locally as Arlies, the shop specialized in active lifestyle apparel and equipment, catering to outdoor thrill-seekers and sports enthusiasts alike. Since that time we have expanded our presence in Canada to more than 70 stores nation-wide, now known to most as Boathouse. We continue to sell active lifestyle brands, offering the newest trends in clothing, footwear, accessories and more! In 2008 we launched Boathousestores.com, bringing the Boathouse experience to you at home, or wherever you choose to shop. Boathouse is committed to conducting business with suppliers who respect human rights and who respect and preserve the environment. The Melissa Fund After graduating from McGill University with a BA in Economics and Political Science, Melissa entered the family business as a sales clerk in one of Boathouse's Toronto locations. With a natural flair for the business and an undeniable aptitude for understanding the customer, she became the Purchasing Director for the company . Then came the unthinkable... a diagnosis of cancer. Melissa passed away April 1, 1999 at the age of 31. Just before Melissa's passing, the Katzman family began a Research Foundation in her name - The Melissa Fund - to support cancer research at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto. Today, we are proud to say that the fund has exceeded $3 million. The fund is supported by personal donations from Arlie and Jamie Katzman, family, friends, and associates Arlies & Boathouse also raise over $150,000 within our stores each year through various donation programs. Our brand Melissa"_ is committed to the fight against cancer. A percentage of every purchase of the "Melissa"_ brand product is donated to cancer research. Shop now, and join the fight.