Main fundraiser photo

Makapo Aquatics wheelchair beach access at NAC

Tax deductible
Thanks so much for visiting my GoFundMe page to raise funds for a Beach Trax system for Makapo Aquatics!  Because of generous donors like you, we reached our goal quickly!  While this campaign is now closed, Makapo Aquatics relies on donations for their programs to reach and benefit the disabled community.  If you feel inspired to give to this amazing non-profit, you can go here, https://www.makapo.org/give and donate to them directly.  They will be extremely grateful!  Your donation is 100% tax deductible.

Read on to learn about Makapo Aquatics and the Beach Trax system purchased with the funds raised by this campaign.

Grateful and Humbled,

Chris Woodburn


Meet Orange County Makapo Aquatics Project.

Makapo Aquatics is an amazing nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for disabled individuals and their families with a unique opportunity to live active lives through outrigger paddling!

I have committed to helping Makapo Aquatics purchase a Beach Trax system that will provide wheelchair access on the beach at the Newport Aquatic Center where, in collaboration with the NAC, Makapo runs their programs.

Let's make the world a more inclusive and accessible place for those with disabilities!  We can change their lives and give them hope.

Thank you in advance for your generosity toward this valuable cause!

With gratitude,

Chris Woodburn



Who is Makapo Aquatics Project?


Finding inclusive athletic activities for people with disabilities is extremely difficult.  Makapo Aquatics provides an inclusive, supportive and fun outdoor activity where disabled individuals of all ages can become more active, confident, healthy and independent.

Makapo strives to promote outrigger paddling as a life-long activity.  This is the only program of its kind.

You can learn more about Makapo Aquatics here www.makapo.org



People with disabilities are given an opportunity to be part of a team.


Why outrigger paddling?

Outrigger paddling is the perfect activity for those with disabilities as special adaptation to the equipment is not required. This allows for an even greater impact because family members and friends are invited to join in Makapo programs.


Families paddle together during Makapo Ohana Days (family days)


What do they need?

Beach Trax!  In order for Makapo Aquatics to reach more people with disabilities, easier access to the water over the sand is critical.  Many families and veterans tell Makapo that they would love to participate, but the sand makes it too difficult.

For those in wheelchairs, using walkers, as well as people that are blind and visually impaired that use canes, Beach Trax is the solution.  

Beach Trax is an innovative modular pathway system empowering people of all physical abilities to maneuver themselves across the sand.  With Beach Trax, they can take part in the healthy activities available on the water previously inaccessible to them.

To learn more about Beach Trax, visit their website at  https://accesstraxsd.com

Beach Trax in use!


What does it cost?

To provide access to the water for those that need assistance over the sand, Makapo Aquatics needs:

 - 120 feet of Beach Trax = 40 panels (3'x3' each)
-  Plus two small “turn-off lanes” (2 panels each for when more than one person is using the path)
-  Orange velcro hinges (for better visibility)
-  Storage unit for when not in use off season

The total cost, which includes tax, shipping & handling is $3,500.  

$3,500.   That's only $80 a panel!!

All proceeds will go directly to Makapo Aquatics for the Beach Trax system and is 100% tax deductible.

Together, we can make a great impact on the lives of those within this much underserved community.

To get the word out further, you can help by sharing the link for this GoFundMe campaign to your Facebook page or other means.
 
Thank you for your support of any amount!


Makapo changes people's lives

"Javier loves outrigger paddling with Makapo Aquatics.  It is 'his' sport that we can all do together.  We are a paddling family now!"  Parent




"Makapo provides a wonderful experience for the children and the entire family."  Parent



The Backstory

In 2006, the Makapo Aquatics Project was originally a team of five blind men gathered together to compete in the 18-mile Queen Liliu’okalani Outrigger Canoe race in Kona, HI.  Being the largest race in the world, it would be a showcase of what blind people could accomplish despite their disability.

NAC/Makapo Adult Outrigger Paddling Team for blind and visually impaired


After more than a decade since its formation, Makapo Aquatics committed to expanding its programs to serve people of all ages with disabilities.  Makapo's experience in working with blind athletes is being used to help a greater number of people enjoy the benefits of outrigger paddling and an active lifestyle.


NAC/Makapo Adult and Jr. Outrigger Paddling teams in San Diego


Adult Team practicing in Newport Harbor


To learn more about Makapo Aquatics and Beach Trax, I encourage you to visit these links:

Makapo Aquatics Project:  https://www.makapo.org
Beach Trax:  https://accesstraxsd.com 

Makapo Aquatics youtube video:

Donations 

  • Angela Shipp
    • $100 
    • 5 yrs
  • Anonymous
    • $400 (Offline)
    • 5 yrs

Fundraising team: Chris Woodburn (2)

Chris Woodburn
Organizer
Laguna Beach, CA
Orange County Makapo Aquaticsproject
 
Registered nonprofit
Donations are typically 100% tax deductible in the US.
RJ De Rama
Team member

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