YPRC offers several youth kayaking programs. These programs, offered at different times of the year,
are held at four locations: The Yonkers YMCA, Lake Sebago, YPRC Boathouse, and the Kennedy Marina.
Since 2002 weekly kayaking classes during the winter at
the YMCA. Children from YPRC are invited as well as children from the YMCA swim team
and aquatics program. We've taught dozens of children with NO boating experience to be
comfortable paddling a kayak, with rescue techniques and general safety issues.
We bring dozens of children whom we taught to kayak in the pool to Lake
Sebago. We review safety, paddling and rescue techniques. This time on the water
increases their stamina and confidence. They have learned to appreciate the beauty of the
place in a new way...they've perfected their skills enough to pick blueberries that grow
along the shore from their kayaks!
We have conducted public programs since 2001 that have involved children
paddling kayaks at our open house events. Since 2004, we've brought graduates from our pool
and Lake Sebago Programs to the Hudson River to paddle, practice rescue techniques and have
fun. We had weekly sessions at the boathouse that involved youth from the open house. Two
children paddled across the river with an adult group to the Alpine Marina at the end of
last summer-- a great culmination to the season.
YRPC is now running a free public kayaking program at Kennedy Marina. Come on down to
join in the fun! Volunteers are needed to help run this fantistic program. The current
schedule is Monday evenings from 5:00 - 7:30pm. Additional times are being worked out and .
will be posted soon. For more information or to volunteer, call Jerry Blackstone (914) 318-4630.
