Through the end of December, Paddle Antrim invites the community to participate in their Matching Gift Challenge. With generous support from an exceptionally committed donor, any gifts during this time will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $15,000. These gifts will help Paddle Antrim continue efforts to provide access, education and stewardship of our local waterways, and will help to kick-start efforts to implement the Water Trail Plan.
While Paddle Antrim may be best known for their Paddle Antrim Festival in September in which kayakers can paddle up to 42-miles through the Chain of Lakes, they have been up to a lot more than that. “As I look back at the accomplishments we were able to achieve with the community’s support and encouragement during our first two years, I am filled with gratitude,” said Deana Jerdee, Paddle Antrim Executive Director. “This Matching Gift Challenge presents a huge boost during a critical time, enabling us to continue our excellent work throughout the region.”
In addition to the Paddle Antrim Festival and hosting other free community paddle events throughout the region, Paddle Antrim has awarded over $6,000 to mission-focused projects to local non-profits and governments through their Ripple Effect grant program. They have also been leading the process to create a Water Trail Plan for the Chain of Lakes waterway. To date, 14 units of government and non-profit access site owners have approved a total of 74 sites for inclusion in the water trail. They are working with businesses, organizations, supporters, and champions to create, manage, and maintain a premier water trail for the region and look forward to unveiling the plan in early 2017.
Donations from both new and existing donors will be matched. Donations can be made securely online at paddleantrim.com/donation or by sending a check made out to Paddle Antrim to PO BOX 205, Bellaire, MI 49615.