Paddles for young paddlers

 

and beach bags to support this terrific endeavor

As indicated in earlier posts, photography is my passion.  Paddling is theirs.  Merge the two and I think you have a winning combination.

The Extra Large Tote (shown above) measures 17.5" X 11.5" X 5" and is $60.00.  All proceeds from the sale of Photo Beach Bags support the purchase of paddles for the Kai'Opua and Keauhou Canoe Clubs.  Contact lois@freshperspectives.org to place your order!

       

In addition to the tremendous lessons learned from participating in a team sport, the club’s focus is to:

• help improve self esteem
• increase pride and knowledge of Hawaiian culture
• help to fight childhood obesity
• educate kids about health and nutrition
• play a role in giving back to the community
• guide children while keeping them off the streets

Yearly cost for each child to participate in the paddling program per is as follows:

• $40 club registration
• $30 paddling jersey
• $150 paddle
• each bus is $500 round trip to the Hilo for quarterly regattas  

Crews that qualify for the state races always have to fundraise for an interisland trip.

Flight costs are approximately $6,000 for the group to travel to mainland states

To this point, the clubs have shared a tiny strip of land near the beach at the Kailua Pier where they stack canoes with four other clubs.  They are in the process of building a canoe halau; it will be our first home for Kai'Opua.

The power behind this terrific program?  Thibert and Rebekah Lussia'a with son, Heimata.

“Both Thibert and I have a heart for our local youth and do whatever we can to help steer them on a more productive and positive path.”  

For anyone interested in supporting this fine endeavor above and beyond the bags:

Checks should be written to Keauhou Canoe Club or Kai’Opua Canoe Club, 73-1542 Hao Way, Kailua-Kona, HI.  96740, which both Rebekah and Thibert coach.  Your money will help underwrite costs incurred in race transportation.  The canoe clubs are non-profit so a receipt for your donation can be sent if requested.  

Realize that any support goes a long way.