WISE Kids Don't Float Project

By Moses Korth

​Kids Don’t Float is a statewide project where lifeguard loaner stations are installed and serviced by local organizations.  WISE fulfilled the wish of a local family by installing one at Pippin Lake.  Hura for the joy of it.
Unconventional. That is the only way to describe the rollercoaster of a year we're having. But even as Covide-19 tries to cripple the productivity of our community; WISE has adapted its methods.  WISE has begun looking at our programs, changing them so that they're still relevant, but that they honor social distancing.  Robin Mayo, (the executive director) has declared, “The world is a dynamic place, and I hope I’m able to continue to do my job, and continue to have a positive impact on the decisions being made.”  We have been trying to protect our community from virus spread by leading by example, and to that end we have made many sacrifices.  But just because we have stopped face to face programs that doesn't mean our mission has failed.  On the contrary this wrench in the works just means we have to get a little...creative.
            “Our mission is to provide science, and environmental education for all ages.  Support for scientific research, and share the natural wonders of the copper river valley.”  Robin told me during our interview.  She said, “I’m motivated by a desire to share the outdoor privileges I had growing up with these kids.”  And, “The knowledge that I can make a positive impact on them.”
            To this end we took up this project.  We hope that this will give more kids the chance to play at Pippin Lake with the safety equipment they need.  These life jackets could save someone's life, and are already being used.  Effectively eliminating one obstacle in the way of your family, and enjoying the outdoors at Pippen Lake.
            This project was inspired and founded by the family of the late Sam Lightwood.  It was his dream to build a swimming pool, but a pool would be too much up-keep, so his family compromised by using the money he left to found this, and other organizations.  But keeping it stocked with life jackets is no mean feat.  If you would like to become part of the effort to keep kids safe, and have extra flotation devices in good condition; then give us a call, at 907-822-3575.  One more way you could help is to notify us when gear breaks.  The last thing we want is to provide faulty equipment.
            I’m the intern here at WISE, and when I first heard about this project I was super excited.  I had never heard of Kids Don’t Float, and had no idea what went into setting up a kiosk.  Building this sign has been a very educational experience.  First I had to get permission from DOT, then I had to build a blueprint to find out what materials I needed, and after I had the materials I had to build it.  I had lots of help along the way.  My dad helped me build it and let me use his tools, and Robin, her daughter Elvie, and part of the Upstream Student Council helped install it.  We ate pizza and had a blast.
            I’d also like to thank everyone who was a part of making this a success.  Especially BLM and the Lightwood family for funding, and Doug Vollman who obtained the life jackets.  The Upstream student council, and my dad.  Robin, Elvie, and Paul Boos who provided the trailer.  And most importantly everyone who is using and enjoying the fruits of our labor.  

Construction is complete.
Photo: WISE