RISE Adventures is hosting their End of Summer Bash on September 25th at Lake Grapevine. For those of you that don't know what RISE does check out their WEBSITE .



I am looking for volunteers to help out with the event. The event last almost all day with most of the time spent paddling either along side someone or as an escort in a tandem yak. It is a great experience to spend time on the water with everyone. Although RISE does provide a few kayaks for our use, it would be appreciated if those who volunteer bring a spare kayak. If you have a tandem, that would be eve better.

I'll be your POC for this forum so either respond to this or shoot me a pm.

Thanks,
Josh

Volunteers:
Neumie
JFBedford
Bert69
HOTKayaks
Jeaux
Spiny Norman & Family
B_Rod
Reel Jerk
Turner & Wife

Count me in, Josh.

I'm pretty sure I can make this. Sounds like a great cause. If I can't make it I would be happy to lend out my kayak for the day.

Spoke with Heart of Texas Kayaks, and they'll be bring up about 10 yaks, so we should be good on yaks.

Also, here are pics from the Spring Bash and last years Fall Bash showing everything they do.

Spring Bash Pics
Fall Bash Pics

Someone also created a video slide show showing the kayakers during the Spring Bash.
YouTube Slide Show

This is a great event and a great way to give to those less fortunate then yourselves. You are not only helping out the person whose mobility has been compromised, but also their families and caregivers.
I was really touched this last time by the two small girls (around 8 and 11), that had not been able to enjoy any outdoor activities since their father's spinal injury. They were beyond thrilled to be able to get out in a kayak and just enjoy a little freedom away from their cares.

Yep, this will be my 3rd time to do this & it's always a LOT of very rewarding work. Everyone leaves exhausted but you just can't replace that feeling in your gut when you know you really made a difference in someones life that day. Looking forward to it again!

Bump

Should we bring fishing gear?

You can if you want to, however, no gear will be on the yak while volunteering. I'll probably bring a small spinning rod and a handful of lures for before and after the event. Maybe we can have a demo yak setup for fishing for people to look at.

Is there anything else you will need help with? Setting up? Food and Drink? Other equipment you might need?

Food and drinks are provided by the Organizers, but they have ran out of food before, so packing a small ice chest with some snacks and drinks. I'll bring a cooler of water. We'll have a pop-up tent and table.

As far as extra gear, any extra lifevests would be great to have.

It starts at 9:00, but be early so that we can get our trucks unloaded at the site and out of the way as quickly as possible. We'll also have to check-in and sign waivers if I remember correctly.

They have more info on the main page It will be at Meadowmere Park:
http://www.riseadventures.org/

I'd like to bring my wife and teen daughter. Can they help?

Yeah,they can help people check in, get fitted for lifevests, and escort people on the water if they want to paddle too.

For those that have volunteered, are y'all still game this weekend?

Still in. And bringing my wife and teen daughter too. See you there.

I'm still in. Looking forward to it.

I will be there in my new kayak cart, bought an FJ Cruiser earlier this week. I will have my ultimate and manta ray for sure, may be able to swing another ultimate and extra paddles.

I think he said he had plenty of kayaks already donated. You might want to check with him though.

We can never have too many kayaks. I'll have three additional yaks with me. If you don't mind loading extra feel free to bring them along.

If anyone can't make it and would like to loan their kayak for the day, let me know and I will come pick it up if it's close to grapevine. I wish I had an extra to bring.

I will be there around 0800 to set up and unload yaks. Wife and daughter will be along later.
(Not exactly "morning people" those two.)

Just an FYI, after the RISE event many kayakers will hanging around for a small, fish fry get together. So hang around after for a little BSing.