Information: www.wildernessworks.org
Lake Lanier’s Olympic Paddle was the go-to place for stand-up paddle boarders on Sept. 6. One of the fastest growing sports, SUP participants took to the water for the Amazing Atlanta SUP Race to benefit Wildnerness Works, a local organization that works with inner-city youth to enhance their lives with enriched educational programs connected with nature.
“I took this sport on a year ago, and thought it would be a fun way to introduce the sport and raise money for a good cause,” said Emily Cook, vice president of the board. Cook directed the race along with Kayla Boys of Mountain High Outfitters.
The Saturday morning race invited 75 participants who participated in a three-, six-, or nine-mile race which raised over $5,000 for Wilderness Works. The money will send 25 kids to various summer camp programs hosted by the organization next summer.
Taking on the ideas of journalist Richard Louv and his theories of nature deficit disorder, William Mickler founded Wilderness Works in 1997 to help children become active and get involved in their outdoor surroundings. This became even more important in today’s technology-driven culture.
“We have discovered that time spent in nature through hiking, biking, camping or the like and doing community service is the key to giving these kids a sense of belonging and safety,” added Cook. “It gives them a network of people who want nothing more to help them succeed and build their character and confidence.”
The race had over 25 volunteers who helped to make the event possible. But, Wilderness Works is a year-round program that relies on volunteers. People can become overnight chaperones for City Camps; prepare meals for the Friday Night Dinner Club or Saturday Morning Breakfast Club; or engage with the kids in arts and crafts or outdoor hiking.
The Widmer family came from Nashville to support the race for Wilderness Works. “We love SUP and being able to combine that passion with helping a great cause is just that much more rewarding!” said Brooke Widmer. “We love what we learned about the Wilderness Works program because it encourages kids to be outside, be active and learn from each other in positive ways.”
In other news: Girl Scout Meredith Jones created 88 "SPOTS Kits" for distribution to fire stations around Atlanta. SPOTS, or Safe Place Off The Streets, is an Atlanta Fire Rescue Department program that offers help and encouragement to women and children suffering from domestic abuse, trafficking and sexual violence. Atlanta opened all of its fire stations to victims of abuse, offering a haven and help in receiving assistance.
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