2024 7th Annual Hood River 24hr Paddle for Cancer

Looking back to where we started in 2017, it is heartwarming to see how much this event has grown.

We are grateful for all of the community's love and support throughout 2023. We are about to embark on the 7th annual Hood River 24hr paddle for cancer on April 20th-21st. We hope you can join us on this journey and extend a helping hand to even more families as we continue to grow.

Hood River is the gathering place where members from different communities all over the west coast have been united by the Columbia river to support the cause.

PNW 24 - History

We started doing this event in Hood River in 2017. It is a 24hr paddle relay to bring together the community to celebrate the strength and resilience of those battling cancer 24hrs a day.

From $3000 in 2017 to $20,000 in 2023. We’ve impacted 48 families lives, from Washington to California, with a total of $65,000 in cash gifts, and engaged the community in support of families who are struggling with the devastating effects of cancer. With in-kind donations of almost $30,000, and over 5,000 hours of volunteer time, we’re establishing credibility to the organization so we can create an even bigger impact in the lives of others in the future, with expanded support and programming.

This response from a 2023 recipient Gary Peterson is typical of what we hear from families:

"This blessing could not have come at a better time as the holidays are here. We will use the gift to help with everyday expenses but also bring a little Christmas cheer. Thank you all so much for your support and generosity. It means the world!”

Who are we?

We are the Small Steps Collective. After 6yrs of doing this event, we are in the process of filing for an official non profit 501c(3) number, so that we can continue to grow and support the community.

What is the PNW 24?

The 24 is a community event, designed to create a safe space where we will paddle with and support those who have been affected by cancer. The 24 is not a race. It is not about speed or distance. It is about commitment. It is designed as an event where team and community members support each other and paddle together in solidarity.

How we are going to do it

Our team will kick off the event and paddle together from Event site at 9am on Saturday April 20th. After that, sub groups of paddlers will be trading off every hour in a relay format until the event ends at 9am on Sunday April 21st. Community activities will take place on Saturday afternoon, follow us on social media to stay tuned on more details

What’s new this year?

This year has brought much community growth with workshops and activities that will be available to those we fight for as well as the public.

Some examples are:

How can you support?

You can support by donating, coming out to the event, paddling with us, cheering us on, and sharing this link with your family and friends. We will be super stoked by having you there with us and highly encourage you to come by and participate. All forms of support are greatly appreciated.

Please join us:

Location: Hood River Event Site

Start: Saturday April 20th 9:00AM

Midway: Saturday April 20th 11:59 PM - Bring lights!

Finish: Sunday April 21st 9:00 AM

This is a community event - you are all invited to join us - we would all love to see you there.

We look forward to continued growth in 2024 as we launch the event with a rich program of activities for families and visitors to the event site.

Thank you for your commitment, involvement, and donations!

Sincerely,

Joel Yang

Small Steps Collective & the PNW 24 community