March 12, 2026 at 12:59 pm
At Paddle Antrim, we believe that supporting like-minded organizations ripples our mission further than we could ever do alone. Our Ripple Effect Mini-Grant Program supports local non-profits and governmental units whose goals align with ours—protecting the precious waterways of the Chain of Lakes and adjacent watersheds. These grants are funded through a portion of the income earned from our classes and events, allowing us to reinvest back into the community… Read More »
March 3, 2026 at 11:38 am
We’re thrilled to share some exciting news from Paddle Antrim! Our Executive Director, Deana Jerdee, has been appointed by Gretchen Whitmer to serve on the State Waterways Commission. Deana will serve as a member of the general public for a term beginning September 19, 2026, and ending September 18, 2029, succeeding Craig Lehrke. This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Michigan Senate. The State Waterways Commission… Read More »
November 18, 2025 at 11:41 am
We are thrilled to share some exciting news—Paddle Antrim has been named Nonprofit of the Year by the Elk Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce! The award was presented at the Chamber’s Annual Dinner on November 7 at Turtle Creek Casino, and we couldn’t be more honored. The Nonprofit of the Year Award recognizes an organization that goes above and beyond in service to the community—one that demonstrates vision, compassion, ethical… Read More »
June 4, 2025 at 10:20 am
Saturday, June 7 is National Trails Day, and what better way to celebrate than by paddling a route on the Chain of Lakes Water Trail — Michigan’s first officially designated Pure Michigan Water Trail! This 100+ mile network of navigable lakes and rivers winds through stunning northern Michigan scenery, offering opportunities for paddlers of all experience levels to connect with nature, community, and the water itself. To help you get… Read More »
June 6, 2024 at 2:41 pm
Paddle Antrim is dedicated to connecting youth with our waterways while emphasizing the importance of water safety. This week, Paddle Antrim had the pleasure of taking Ellsworth School middle schoolers and high schoolers kayaking on Ellsworth Lake. For some students, this was their first time experiencing the joy of being on the water. These sessions were designed to introduce the students to water safety, basic paddling strokes, and the joy… Read More »
November 16, 2023 at 1:36 pm
Paddle Antrim is excited to announce the allocation of $2,000 to two projects that will positively impact Northern Michigan’s waterways through the Ripple Effect Mini Grant Program. The Ripple Effect Mini Grant Program by Paddle Antrim is entirely supported by the revenue generated from the nonprofit’s events, such as the Paddle Antrim Festival, alongside proceeds from paddling classes. Deana Jerdee, Executive Director of Paddle Antrim, highlighted, “A portion of the… Read More »
October 7, 2023 at 1:30 pm
For many people, their first experience with Paddle Antrim—whether at a festival, class, or community event—sparks more than just a day of fun on the water. It often begins a journey of connection, curiosity, and commitment. For George Grazul, it started in 2017 when he took a safety class after moving to Traverse City and looking for a way to meet other paddlers. “Paddle Antrim wasn’t exactly what I was… Read More »
October 4, 2022 at 2:09 pm
Paddle Antrim is pleased to announce they are accepting applications for their bi-annual 2022 Ripple Effect Mini Grant Program. This competitive grant program funds projects that protect the waterways and connect people to them. Potential projects must focus on stewardship, education, or increasing accessibility to the lakes and rivers. Since 2015, Paddle Antrim has awarded over $25,000 to 17 projects that have made an impact on over 10 communities. The… Read More »
August 14, 2020 at 1:03 pm
Photo credit: 9&10 News & Corey Adkins They did it! Stand Up for Great Lakes successfully paddled the entire Chain of Lakes. Starting at Six Mile lake, near Ellsworth and ending at Elk Rapids Rotary park. The journey began at 5:30 AM and ended at 9:30 PM and was 50 miles in length. Over 50 paddlers joined the SUFGL paddlers along the way and they were cheered on by hundreds… Read More »