Mission

Our mission is to HELP veterans, first responders, and their families heal through paddling.

Philosophy

Paddle for Heroes was organized on behalf of veterans and others who have suffered traumatic events and deserve the opportunity to enjoy life, while paddling through the healing process.

We Believe

We believe that nature and water are powerful in the healing process.
We believe that individuals should have access to the same activities no matter their physical or mental status.
We believe that healing and contentment are unique for each individual.

ADA Accessible Kayak Launch Fundraiser

Paddle for Heroes wanted to contribute to the community of Mount Vernon, Ohio. Installing an ADA Accessible Kayak Launch at Ariel-Foundation Park will allow the local and surrounding community members a place to come where they could enjoy the comforts and enjoyment of the water, without the concern of deciding how to get in and out of their kayak or canoe. Paddle for Heroes has worked with the community and raised over $30,000 to install the launch.

We are happy to announce that the launch was installed on June 6th, 2019!

We are now looking for ways to continue to help those that would like to enjoy the water but don't always have the resources. A donation to Paddle for Heroes would help us provide adaptive paddling equipment such as kayaks, paddles, life jackets ,and more to those that would not be able to purchase them on their own.

MOUNT VERNON TO MARIETTA AWARENESS PADDLE

2023

IN MEMORY OF

Officer Thomas Cottrell

Danville Police Dept

End of Watch January 17, 2016

Each year a group of Veterans, First Responders, and Supporters journey as a collective unit from Mount Vernon, Ohio to Marietta, Ohio. Our journey each year is dedicated to one of our fallen heroes.

This 160-mile paddle is key to raising awareness of our mission and brings positive enlightenment regarding our Hero community.

Witness for yourself strangers come together to support a common mission and leave as family. The impact that these relationships create in our communities is vital to awareness and support. We have had overwhelming support from small towns and communities along the way. Won't you join us?

ADA Accessible Kayak Launch

The goal of Paddle for Heroes is dedicated to providing access to our waterways for all. We believe that paddling is therapeutic for the mind and body.

Paddle for Heroes dedication to those with disabilities is seen daily in our ADA Compliant Kayak Launches. We are committed to the continuation of fund raising to allow all the ability to access our waterways. We are steadfast in our commitment.

Our specific objectives for this endeavor are to:

Raise funds to install ADA Accessible Kayak Launches at Ariel-Foundation Park and The William R. Gaines Jr. Memorial Park.
Help our community and those that have disabilities get back on the water easily and safely.
Allow those that have not been able to enjoy the water because of a disability to have access to the activities they enjoy most.
Promote outdoor activities that support healing and health.