Governor Jim Hodges Proclaims May 12th
Canoeing for Kids Day in South Carolina

3/21/00

Dear Friends of Kids,

I Write to you from near treetop level overlooking the Saluda River. As the full moon illuminates the deck of CFK headquarters, I break from my carpentry inside to enjoy the moonrise and share with you the latest developments here at CFK.

Most importantly, we served nearly 1,400 kids during the 1999 season and are more prepared than ever to increase our services in 2000. We actually ran our first trip of the season today. Saluda River Whitewater Rafting! A trip that has become quite popular with the kids since we began operating from our new riverside facility.

The boathouse is nearing completion of Phase If and stands proudly as a functioning monument to volunteerism and generosity. To date, we have spent LESS THAN $5,000 in labor to build a 3,000sq.ft. structure! United Parcel Service delivered right on time with a tremendous grant of $25,000 for building materials. Unfortunately, space does not allow me to recognize all who have donated time, money and building materials to the boat house project. I can only hope that being part of creating a place that will serve disadvantaged children forever will provide them with the special inner peace achieved when one truly gives.

With our 7th CANOE-A-THON approaching, we decided to try a new twist with the RAFT-A-RAMA. Mother Nature willing, we'll have high water & great rafting. CANOE-A-THON, RAFT-A-RAMA, whatever you want to call it, the goal remains the same. Have fun and raise money so that our work can continue. Even if you have no desire to get on the water please come to CFK HQ on May 13 at 3 pm. Tour the facility, eat well and help us celebrate the dedication of our new building. If you love and believe in Canoeing for Kids, you will want to be there when we dedicate our monument to caring and giving.

See you then,

J. Alley