7th Annual Kayaking for Kids, sponsoring for a cause

Excitement is building for the upcoming Seventh Annual Kayaking for Kids event, scheduled to take place on Aug. 5. With years of past successes, this water-based event promises a day filled with fun and unforgettable memories.

As the event draws near, potential sponsors are invited to positively impact the lives of children in our community by benefiting local school resource centers.

Whitley County Projects Director Amber Owens said that last year’s turnout for fundraising was the highest it has ever been.

Last year, they raised over $20,000 for Upward basketball scholarships and family resource centers. This was a massive difference from the first time they hosted the event when it raised a little under $10,000 and having fewer racers/participators.

The proceeds fund scholarships for the Williamsburg Upward and Corbin Upward basketball leagues. The remainder of the money is then split between the elementary school family resource centers.

“We are hoping to at least match or raise more than we did last year,” Owens said.

The sponsor deadline is July 7. All sponsorship donations will go to the family resource centers.

Regarding sponsorships, the event offers various levels of support, each with its unique benefits.

Silver-level sponsorships are $100, including your name on the race T-shirt and two race spots.

Gold-level sponsorships are $250, including your logo on shirts, banners, and four race spots.

Platinum-level sponsorships are $500, including your logo on shirts and banners, your logo and name on social media, and six race spots.

The race will start at the Whitley County Fairgrounds and end at the Croley Bend Boat Ramp, which concludes at about five miles. This year’s route differs from the first time the event was hosted, when covered only two and a half miles.

After the race is over, participants can enjoy lunch and prizes.

“We want to invite everyone to join us this year on a fun day on the river. We award cash prizes to the first, second, and third-place winners. All the money goes to the kids in the community,” Owens said.

To be a race sponsor, or to get more information about the race, contact Amber Owens at (606) 549-6000 or aowens@2geton.net.