People Paddle

People Paddle is a non-profit kayaking fundraiser that takes place annually on South Beach Harbor in San Francisco. A group of up to several-hundred kayakers, it raises money for dozens of nonprofit organizations.

The usual route for People Paddle takes paddlers from Pier 40 on South Beach Harbor, into McCovey Cove (adjacent to AT&T Park, home of the San Francisco Giants), then back to South Beach Harbor.

Beneficiaries
Each year, People Paddle selects dozens of beneficiary nonprofit organizations. Participating paddlers select their favorite nonprofit beneficiary group from a list of nonprofit groups. The 2007 event was endorsed by the San Francisco Mayor's Office, and by the San Francisco Supervisors. The event was sponsored by the California Department of Boating and Waterways, and many Northern California kayak outfitters.

History

2006: People Paddle I. People Paddle was created in 2006 to raise money through kayak-borne fundraisers. After several regional kayak-borne fundraisers, the founders created a new San Francisco event. The nascent People Paddle partnered with the South Beach Block Party, to offer fundraising to organizations associated with the Block Party. A coalition of nonprofit beneficiaries was formed in 2006, the Bay Area Association of Disabled Sailors (BAADS) which acted as fiscal agent for the 2006 event. The kayaking attracted more than 70 kayakers, to raise money for regional causes. On-water escort was provided by experienced local kayakers. Motorboat escorts were provided by the Coast Guard auxiliary and the San Francisco Police Department, as well as volunteer motorboat operators from local boating clubs. Kayakers were escorted into McCovey Cove by support boats including the Phoenix fire boat. Money raised by People Paddle was distributed to causes ranging from sailors with disabilities, to art museums, to children's medical research facilities.

2007: People Paddle II for AIDS. The fiscal agent position was filled by Healing Waters in 2007, a San Francisco based AIDS Service Organization dedicated to enabling persons with HIV/AIDS to enjoy outdoor activities. The fundraising emphasis for People Paddle II 2007 was HIV/AIDS, and 23 AIDS Service Organizations were included in the beneficiary list. A total of 117 kayakers, most new to the sport, joined event sponsors and raised money for 23 AIDS causes. Participants were escorted by a flotilla of experienced safety kayakers, Zodiacs, and a police boat. Approximately 100 volunteers assisted, including members of Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. An after party featuring live music and prizes finished the event.

Sergeant Danny Lopez of the SFPD Marine Unit called it a "well organized event".

2008: People Paddle III for AIDS. The fiscal agent position is again filled by Healing Waters. People Paddle III is scheduled for May 4, 2008, and will again target AIDS/HIV causes. 200 kayakers are expected, plus several additional outrigger canoes and other people-powered watercraft.

2008: People Paddle for the Planet. The model is expanding to raise funds for about 2 dozen environmental causes. People Paddle for the Planet is scheduled for June 15, 2008, 100+ kayakers are expected to raise money for environmental nonprofit groups.

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