Kayak Training
Dear Editor: Southeast Alaska Independent Living would like to thank everyone involved in making our 2013 kayak season a success.
As Sitka’s Aging and Disability Resource Center, SAIL specializes in offering inclusive recreational opportunities to people with disabilities and people over the age of 60.
In 2013, we offered 10 different kayak trainings and activities. We had 39 total participants, 24 different participants, and 10 people introduced to SAIL’s recreation programs for the first time. These sessions focused on teaching skills and offering an accessible outdoor recreational experience for everyone. We will be capping our kayak season with a three-day inclusive kayak trip to Sam Sing Cabin this Sunday, July 14. This trip includes nine people representing all ages and disabilities.
So much of this season was made possible through the help of numerous community partners and volunteers.
SAIL would like to extend a special thanks for the generosity of the organizations Sitka Sound Ocean Adventures, Blatchley Pool, AMSEA, Latitude Adventures, Banff Mountain Film Festival Sitka and No Limits. Also, a big thank you to the multitude of volunteers, especially Chris Todd, Adam Andis, Paul Norwood, Cindy Edwards, Brant Brantman, Emjay Messinger, Tim Fulton, Grace Hwang, Tony Phillips and Aaron Routen, who donated time, energy and gear to the cause.
It has been inspiring to see the greater Sitka community offer such impressive involvement in making recreational options accessible to everyone. If you (or someone you know) are interested in participating or volunteering in any of SAIL’s Outdoor Recreation programs, please call 747-6859 or visit sailinc.org.
Nick Ponzetti,
Sitka ORCA Program Coordinator
