DREAM Adaptive’s annual watersports week at Echo Lake
Maren Colt takes a ride on the adaptive water ski on July 21 during DREAM Adaptive's week-long annual Water Sports Program at Echo Lake. (Whitney England/Whitefish Pilot)
DREAM Adaptive Recreation has teamed up with Launch Watersports to provide the nonprofit’s 15th Annual Watersports Week on Echo Lake. After being involved last year, Launch Watersports has increased its commitment to DREAM. They will provide over $20,000 of in-kind donations of boats and drivers throughout the summer. Weyerhaeuser has also continued their annual support with a $3,500 grant to help defray the costs of the program, which aims to empower individuals with disabilities through a variety of watersports. Wild Wave Watercraft and Boat Rentals will join in the fun by offering discounted jet skis that will be used to carry safety swimmers.
“Demand for our life-changing programs is skyrocketing and generosity such as this allows us to expand our services and impact more lives in a safe and thoughtful way,” DREAM Executive Director Julie Tickle said. “Launch Watersports has made an incredible statement about the importance of inclusion and access. Boat rentals are one of the costliest items for us each summer, and knowing Launch will provide top-of-the-line equipment and drivers means we can dedicate our funds to other important program areas.
“Weyerhaeuser’s grant allows us to provide inclusive family-friendly programming at a highly subsidized rate. This ensures people with disabilities can fully participate and be represented in our outdoor-minded community.”
The DREAM Watersports Week will take place July 11-14 at the Thompson Family’s private residence on Echo Lake in Bigfork. The dates of July 11-13 are open to individuals ages five to adults and their families, including those with physical, cognitive and sensory disabilities. July 14 is reserved for Military Veterans and their family members. Activities will include water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, paddle boarding, kayaking and boating with a variety of stand-up and adaptive equipment to choose from. No previous experience is required, as trained staff and volunteers will be on hand to provide support and instruction.
Additional individual watersports skills days will take place on Whitefish Lake on Aug. 2, 9 and 16. Pre-registration is required for all participants, family members and volunteers.
“Launch Watersports believes that being on the water fosters health, wellness and happiness. This aligns beautifully with DREAM’s mission, and we are so grateful to play a role in their success,” said Sean Lujan, general manager of Launch Watersports. “We are looking forward to making the lakes accessible to more community members this summer.”
To learn more about DREAM Adaptive Recreation and ways to become involved as a participant, volunteer, or donor, please contact the office at (406) 885-9539 or visit www.dreamadaptive.org.