On Saturday, June 22, BCOS showed up and showed out at Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area. Over a dozen volunteers set up for a day of showing kids how much fun paddling can be. We unloaded boats and then set up chairs, a table and tent and waited for the younguns to arrive.
When they did, we fitted PFD's, put them in boats and taught some basic paddling skills. Some took off like they've done it forever, others didn't want us to let go of their boats. A gusty breeze gave the kids some challenges but kept us from getting overheated on a very hot and humid day. When we had a lull, a team when out to round up more kids.
We ended up having almost 40 participants and more than a couple parents. We spoke with numerous beach goers about our group, activities and mission. We signed up two new members and received a generous donation. The park did good with giving all of the volunteers free day passes. Some of the campers had a night paddle Friday night and all enjoyed good social time. This type of outreach fulfills not only our education objective, but our recreation one as well. We love an excuse to GET OUTSIDE!
