It’s that time of year again. The 13th Annual Paddle for Parkview returns with in-person and remote participation. This year, everyone is encouraged to grab a towel and their water shoes to enjoy a fun-filled, relaxing afternoon on the water to promote the work of the Parkview LaGrange Foundation. Christina Blaskie, manager, Patient Experience & Volunteers, Parkview LaGrange Hospital, discusses the details of this family-friendly event and why your participation and support are so important.
What is Paddle for Parkview, and what does it entail?
Established in 2010, Paddle for Parkview is a community event open to all ages. All proceeds for this year’s event will benefit the Parkview LaGrange Mental Health Program Support Fund. Participants will meet at the Trading Post Canoe, Kayak & Campground in Mongo, Indiana. Those joining us for the in-person event on June 10 can look forward to lunch, a brief program discussing this year’s beneficiary, and a moment of recognition to all our sponsors. Paddlers then have the choice of canoeing or kayaking a leisurely 7-mile course or a more challenging 13-mile route while taking in the sights of Pigeon River and enjoying the great outdoors. Anyone unable to attend in person can choose their own paddle date from July 25 through August 5.
What is the goal of this community event?
The ultimate goal of the Paddle for Parkview event each year is to raise funds for various programming and services. This year’s beneficiary is mental health programming, identified as the number one health priority for LaGrange County based on the 2019 community health needs assessment survey.
How are the funds raised each year?
We raise funds primarily through sponsorships and event registrations. We appreciate everyone who contributes to the cause and comes out to paddle with us as we strive to meet the ever-changing needs of our patients and communities while raising awareness for a specific program each year.
What program or service is the beneficiary of this year’s proceeds?
As previously mentioned, this year’s beneficiary is mental health programming. This fund supports patient-related needs in mental health programs at Parkview LaGrange Hospital, including transportation, program needs, equipment, staff training, supplies, and any other materials that support patients.
What support strategies have you implemented with the help of these funds?
In years past, the funds raised through the Paddle for Parkview event have allowed us to assist those in need in the following ways:
- Awarding student scholarships for those pursuing or furthering a career in healthcare
- Purchasing equipment for the satellite YMCA spin classes and silver sneakers
- Offering medication assistance
- Obtaining light therapy for Parkview LifeBridge patients
- Providing pediatric distraction kits for our littlest patients to help reduce anxiety and promote calm and comfort in unfamiliar settings.
Why should the community care about raising funds for these community programs and services?
The pandemic has taken a toll on us all over the last two years. We must raise funds for and support mental health programming because it was identified as a health priority for LaGrange County. With suicide attempts and completions on the rise and more people experiencing anxiety and depression-related health issues, we must take steps to support each other and promote mental health and well-being.
How can paddling enthusiasts sign up?
Interested individuals can pre-register for the June 10 event and paddling times from July 25 through August 5 by visiting Parkview.com/LaGrangePaddle. Sponsorships for individuals and businesses are also available. Anyone wanting to sponsor or take advantage of the paddle event t-shirt must donate a minimum of $20 by May 25. For more information, questions, or to share photos of your experience while at the event, please contact Christina Blaskie via email at christina.blaskie@parkview.com or call 260-463-9389.
