On Behalf of ODKF
ALOHA KĀKOU, I am excited to share with you some important efforts to carry out our Club’s mission through the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation (ODKF), the philanthropic heartbeat of our Club.
Community Engagement and Inclusivity: Just as Duke Kahanamoku brought people together through his love for the water and his drive for vigorous competition, ODKF fosters a strong sense of community through outreach programs, inclusive events, and partnerships with local organizations. Together, we can create an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued in water sports and volleyball. A new Duke Kahanamoku license plate available in 2025 will raise funds for water safety and swim education grants to be distributed through ODKF. ODKF also continues to host its signature events: Hawai‘i Waterman Hall of Fame, the Duke’s Night scholarships celebration, and Duke’s Oceanfest water sports festival. Your continued support and contributions to the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation are crucial in advancing these initiatives and ensuring that our Club remains a beacon of excellence in athletics. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference and helps us honor Duke Kahanamoku’s memory in a meaningful way. I invite each of you to consider how you can contribute to our foundation’s mission. Whether through financial support, volunteering your time and expertise, or simply spreading the word about our efforts, your involvement is vital to our success. In the spirit of Duke Kahanamoku’s legacy, let us come together to build upon the foundations he laid and create a lasting impact on our community. Together, we can continue to inspire, educate, and empower future generations of athletes and enthusiasts.
Named in honor of the legendary OCC member Duke Kahanamoku, this foundation aims to carry forward Duke’s legacy of athleticism, community, and dedication to water sports and volleyball by supporting initiatives that align with his spirit and values. One of the foundation’s primary goals is to bolster our Club’s efforts in nurturing athletic talent in water sports and
volleyball and expanding opportunities for people to participate fully in the sports of old Hawai‘i. Through your generous contributions, we can make significant strides in achieving these objectives and ensuring a vibrant future for our Club and the greater athletic community. Support for Athletes: We are committed to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for our athletes to excel. The foundation provides scholarships, training and travel grants, and competitive opportunities to Hawai‘i water sports and volleyball athletes, enabling them to reach their full potential. ODKF granted 24 scholarships this year, including three to OCC members, and also provided 32 grants, including to the Club’s Macfarlane Canoe Regatta, the Cline Mann Paddleboard Race, and Dad Center Canoe Race. Water Safety Initiatives: Safety on the water is paramount. Since 1986, ODKF has funded initiatives such as lifeguard training, junior lifeguard programs, and safety equipment upgrades to ensure that athletes can enjoy our sports safely. ODKF recently helped found the Hawai‘i Water Safety Coalition to unite the community in efforts to reduce drownings, the leading cause of death for Hawai‘i keiki ages 1- to 15 years old.
Jen Bossert Past President, ODKF
Donate to ODKF here:
6 AMA | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024
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