Overview & Background
This summer, once again paddlers (young and old, experienced and beginners, from near and far) will climb in to plastic and beautiful wooden vessels to venture out in Chippewa Bay – a true Paddler’s Paradise of the 1000 Islands!
People will do this for two reasons:
Energy and support from volunteers and participants alike will help launch new community developments, help individuals in true need and/or support local organizations which lack the means to succeed .
People will do this for two reasons:
- As an opportunity to have a great time in the outdoors with some like-minded, fun and amazing people; and
- To be part of a solution - to create an immediate, positive impact on Hammond's community!
Energy and support from volunteers and participants alike will help launch new community developments, help individuals in true need and/or support local organizations which lack the means to succeed .
When it all began...
“Paddle For A Purpose” was coined and launched in 2014 by a group of enthusiastic and caring people in the Hammond community. As mostly members of a previous Economic Development Committee, our organizers were eager to start something truly special — something memorable and fun — while at the same time bringing business and tourism awareness to our unique area in the 1000 Islands and Black Lake Regions. Another aim was to provide legitimate funding to the Hammond area for public enjoyment, outdoor recreation improvements and community enhancements.
At the core of our mission is the desire to create an event that would build a sense of community, energize volunteers, provide an amazing one-day “St. Lawrence River” experience (for residents and visitors) and establish a new tradition for us to proudly enjoy....year after year.
Hence, Chippewa Bay's Poker Run - “Paddle for a Purpose” was born!
At the core of our mission is the desire to create an event that would build a sense of community, energize volunteers, provide an amazing one-day “St. Lawrence River” experience (for residents and visitors) and establish a new tradition for us to proudly enjoy....year after year.
Hence, Chippewa Bay's Poker Run - “Paddle for a Purpose” was born!
The Poker Run is a now a 100% volunteer-run event, made possible through a recent partnership with the The Foundation for Community Betterment—a national not-for-profit organization with a local chapter currently in Alexandria Bay. All proceeds will be given to Hammond charities, local individuals in need and/or development projects close to our hearts and homes. Donations to the Chippewa Bay Poker Run - Paddle for a Purpose are thereby tax deductible under provisions of the Internal Revenue code.
With overwhelming support from the first year’s 85+ participants, 15+ volunteers and 10+ business sponsors we were able to purchase and install 10 new benches and flower planters throughout the Hammond Village, for all to enjoy!
In 2018, we were pleased to receive a record number of paddlers (190+), help from over 40 volunteers and we received the most amount of business sponsors. This energy translated into being able to help numerous organizations and causes to give back to our beloved community.
With overwhelming support from the first year’s 85+ participants, 15+ volunteers and 10+ business sponsors we were able to purchase and install 10 new benches and flower planters throughout the Hammond Village, for all to enjoy!
In 2018, we were pleased to receive a record number of paddlers (190+), help from over 40 volunteers and we received the most amount of business sponsors. This energy translated into being able to help numerous organizations and causes to give back to our beloved community.
Join Us at Schermerhorn Harbor!
190 kayakers raised their paddles in support of Hammond and Chippewa Bay last year alone. There is a serenity and camaraderie that exists when you’re with a group of people on the water. You’re invited to share stories of yesteryear and create new memories – all for the love of our area! We have a special niche that so many deserve (and have yet) to experience.
Bring children, bring friends, bring relatives, or just bring yourself. The beauty of the islands in Chippewa Bay is simply unsurpassed— and we hope you’ll join us in experiencing the magical spirit of philanthropy too! Explore Our Shores…and so much more.
Should you have any questions please contact:
Bring children, bring friends, bring relatives, or just bring yourself. The beauty of the islands in Chippewa Bay is simply unsurpassed— and we hope you’ll join us in experiencing the magical spirit of philanthropy too! Explore Our Shores…and so much more.
Should you have any questions please contact:
- Erica Demick: (315) 486-9296
- VisitHammondNY@gmail.com