Paddle for a Purpose – participants sought for annual fundraiser in support of the PADDLE Program
The beloved community tradition ‘Up the Creek Without a PADDLE’ is making its final splash on June 20 at Olmstead Beach, bringing together locals in support of adults with developmental disabilities
‘Stranded’ dragon boaters will once again rely on community donations to make it back to shore during North Bay’s unique charity event benefiting adults with developmental disabilities.
The countdown is on for the final edition of the beloved community fundraising event, Up the Creek Without a PADDLE, taking place on Friday, June 20, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Olmstead Beach on Trout Lake in support of The PADDLE Program. This will be the last one as organizers feel that interest is waning and they are going to try something new next year.
This unique and spirited fundraiser challenges local business leaders, teams, and community members to take to the waters of Trout Lake in dragon boats—without paddles! Stranded offshore, participants must raise funds in real-time from friends, family, and colleagues to “purchase” their paddle and make their way back to shore.
Last year’s event raised a record-breaking $70,000 for The PADDLE Program (Providing Adults with Developmental Disabilities Lifelong Experiences), a North Bay-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering adults with complex developmental disabilities through education, wellness, and community engagement. Organizers are actively seeking participants for this year’s event to make it the biggest and best to date.
“We rely on the incredible support of our community to continue offering meaningful opportunities for our participants,” said Megan Johnson, Executive Director of The PADDLE Program. “Whether you’re paddling or pledging, your support helps sustain a vital program in our community that fosters independence, confidence, and community inclusion for adults with developmental disabilities.”
Participants can register as individuals or teams and are encouraged to collect pledges in advance or during the event. Donations can be tracked and collected easily through the event’s CanadaHelps page. Awards and bragging rights await the top fundraisers.
How to Get Involved:
- To donate or register as a participant, visit here.
- Register as an individual or create/join a team
- Raise funds using the online CanadaHelps platform
- Join us at Olmstead Beach to paddle for a purpose or cheer on your favourite team!
By BayToday Staff
