This year 1,600 people will have the opportunity to get outside, many for the first time, and explore America’s waterways.
The influx of participation is a result of the Paddle Nation Grant Program, an initiative connecting young people to their rivers, streams, lakes and oceans, funded by Outdoor Retailer, National Park Service and many paddle-sport manufacturers, retailers and stakeholders. Notably, Confluence Outdoor has given $10,000 in funding, ensuring support for the best and most effective projects that introduce paddling to a new generation.
The Laurel Foundation received $2,500 to support its work to engage 105 children and youth affected by HIV/AIDS in a summer paddle program. “We are excited to partner with Paddle Nation to get the kids outdoors and experience paddling on the open water!” Margot Anderson, the founder and Chief Executive Officer stated.
Unique in the outdoor industry, the Paddle Nation Grant Program was launched in 2012 with financial support and leadership from Outdoor Retailer and many companies in the paddle-sport industry including Confluence Outdoor, Johnson Outdoors, Rutabaga Paddlesports, OARS, BIC Sports, Glenbrook, Advanced Elements, River Sport Outfitters and ACK. Leveraging this industry support, the National Park Service joined as a major funder in 2013, significantly expanding the grant program.
Since its inception, 67 paddle projects have been funded with more than $162,000 given to noteworthy projects. Working with nearly 30 different retailers, 9,730 individuals have gotten outside on waterways including 6,023 youth. In totally, nearly 90,000 hours have been spent outside paddling.
“Thanks to the leadership and support of our partners, we are investing in the ideas, and projects that drive a significant increase in participation on our waterways,” said Chris Fanning, executive director of the Outdoor Foundation. “Through these Paddle Nation Grants, young people across the country will explore rivers, lakes and streams through a variety of activities – resulting in a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts and environmental stewards.”
About The Laurel Foundation
The Laurel Foundation’s mission is to empower children, youth and families living with HIV and AIDS by providing a diverse range of educational and support programs in an emotionally and physically safe and trusting environment. The Laurel Foundation, based in Pasadena, annually helps more than 500 low-income, at-risk, needy participants living primarily in Southern California.
To accomplish its mission, The Laurel Foundation programs consist of resident camps, mentorships, day programs and support programs. Each program aims to eradicate the pain and isolation associated with HIV and AIDS by teaching participants the important life skills (e.g., independence, trust, problem solving) needed to overcome the adversity of HIV and AIDS. In addition, programs focus on building social support systems with peers, developing bonds with volunteers who serve as crucial role models, and educating participants on health life choices and the consequences of at-risk behaviors. All programs support social and emotional development, boost self-esteem, and help participants reach their full potential in life. For information on how to make a donation or volunteer please visit www.Laurel-Foundation.org.
The Outdoor Foundation
Founded in 2000, the Outdoor Foundation is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and growing future generations of outdoor leaders and enthusiasts. Through youth engagement, community grant-making, and groundbreaking research, the Foundation works with young leaders and partners to mobilize a major cultural shift that leads all Americans to the great outdoors. In just five years, the Foundation has invested $4 million into 785 not-for-profit and college programs that have connected 200,000 young people to the outdoors. Importantly, 90¢ of every dollar goes.
