Kayaking with Courage Kenny on the North Shore

A day out on the lake was the plan for Courage Kenny members.

"We had an adaptive kayaking trip today; we had six participants and six volunteers out with us. We paddled under Split Rock Lighthouse, into the caves, and along the shore. We had a picnic and kind of enjoyed the fog rolling in and out today. It was a good day to be on the water,” says Tyler Vandal, program coordinator for Courage Kenny.

Vandal talks about how the group can help to provide opportunities for people with disabilities the chance to participate in any activity. “The goal is to demonstrate that but to get them out here enjoying whatever it is."

Joining Courage Kenny has been life-changing for two of its members. "I thought that once I became permanently chair-bound, my activities were going to be done. I was not going to be able to go kayaking, and here I was today, out on Lake Superior for several hours, said Duluth Resident Anna Hartshorn.

Minneapolis resident Susan Fink said, "it’s really changed my life literally because you can do so many. Anything you can think of doing, you can probably, they will figure out a way to adapt it. I have tried a lot with them."

Everything that this organization has been able to offer Anna has given her something amazing back.

"Without Courage, I thought everything was done, and I would not be able to do anything else, but with Courage man…my life is back, and I am so happy. I wish anybody who has the chance could get wrapped up with Courage.