Feature: Summer Programming

HERO USA Summer Program

HERO USA is dedicated to helping kids create a lifelong passion for summer sports and we are expanding and growing our summer sports training curriculum. Currently, we have developed a strong foundation in paddle sports education. There are many reasons why certain sports are typically out of reach for a lot of the disadvantaged community - from lack of access to the equipment to even knowing how to just make these activities possible. We have promoted kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, safe water skiing and wakeboard instruction. In the future, we will be expanding summer programs to include running, biking, mountain climbing, wind surfing, and more. Below is a list of successful programs that HERO USA has partnered on or developed. We eliminate obstacles and open a world of possibility to outdoor activity during the summer months.

Paddle In the City Program:
In 2017, HERO USA partnered with the Columbus Recreation and Parks to offer guided kayak, canoe and stand up paddleboard tours in downtown Columbus, running every weekend for the months of August through October. All guides are American Canoe Association certified instructors. Participants receive a quick-start to paddling safety course prior to hitting the water. Once afloat, HERO instructors guide participants down river while teaching skills development and nature education. This activity is also offered on many of central Ohio waterways ranging from the Scioto Darby to the Licking River. HERO USA has introduced youth groups and general participants to a lot of Ohio from the water and we are excited to help expose as many people as possible to the joys and possibilities of water sports.

Ohio Adaptive Adventures:
HERO USA partners with Metro Parks and the YMCA of central Ohio to bring a day of specialized fun for kids and teens with physical or mental challenges – intending for them to get exercise in many different ways. At this event, kids of all ages scaled a portable rock climbing wall, did some fishing and had the chance to participate in various other activities. Youth participants also paddled with certified instructors from HERO USA and the American Kayak Association to make this a great adaptive exercise day, no matter the functioning ability.

Jazz & Rib Fest | Columbus Arts Festival:
HERO USA has has been putting people on the water in downtown Columbus during these annual events since 2010. We have certified instructors teach individuals a “Smart Start” to kayaking and canoeing and then let them enjoy the music and the downtown view, making this a unique way to experience this festival and also downtown Columbus.

DRN Paddle sports Safety Education Class:
HERO USA has partnered with The Disability Resource Network to provide educational support to their Paddle sports Education Class. Disability Resource Network is a 501c3 organization who supports individuals with developmental disabilities. HERO USA provides certified canoe, kayak and adaptive paddling instructors who provide safety education to youth and young adults who have disabilities including loss of hearing, autism, and down syndrome.

HERO USA Water Sports Weekend:
During the summers of 2010, 2011 and 2013-2017, HERO USA has offered free water sports education to local community youth groups. HERO USA has provided trainers and equipment to youth interested in learning basic skills and safe practices of various technical water sports including water skiing, wake-boarding, canoeing, and kayaking. This activity is a kid favorite as it is typically just some time outside in the sun where everyone can safely swim and participate in water sports all day long.

Youth Organizations:

HERO USA strives to fulfill our charitable purpose by partnering with other youth based organizations including schools, churches, government agencies and clubs. We offer special pricing and packages that are designed to help meet the tight budget constraints of any non profit. Each organization will have the ability to choose up to 2 (two) dates for a private paddling session down a central Ohio waterway. (*minimum class size must be met)

Volunteer:

(no experience necessary) Volunteer your time to help children learn to paddlesports safely & pass on your knowledge and passion for the sport or just help keep track of everyone and be “a parent” to all of us on the water. Spend a few hours helping our kids and join us on the water!

REMEMBER: you don’t need to be a professional… sometimes it’s just as rewarding for the kids to learn with a chaperone.

Register for a class:

HERO USA also provides corporate or group outings that line up with most of the activities described in our programs. These can be customized and arranged based on individual needs so if you are interested in have a team building exercise that people won’t forget, please follow the CONTACT US link and send us a message!

Donate:

HERO USA is a 100% volunteer based organization. We rely heavily on donation support to continue to expand our programming. You can donate monetarily though our website or we also accept in-kind donations of used sporting gear and equipment. Please contact us at info@herousa.org to make an in-kind donation.

Please email us if you would like HERO to help organize a trip for you. We can provide assistance and advice to get you started and experience paddle sports in a safe environment.

Check our events calendar for upcoming opportunities.