Here’s an interesting project.  Starting December 1, 2007, Greenland Kayaks (Inuit Qajaat) has begun a Kayaks to Schools project which aims to provide Kayaks, gear and training to schools in remote parts of Greenland.

This is from their website:

Our first aim is to support schools in Appilatoq (Cape Farewell) and Isertoq (East Coast), total about 50 children.

The hunting villages in Greenland are the poorest areas of the country. Poverty leads to cultural erosion and kayaking as a living part of our culture is coming to an end. This project brings traditional equipment and training to some of the worst off villages, in the hope that cultural appreciation fosters self esteem in the young. Help us give a little back to the people of the kayak!

Each school receives 4 youth sized and one adult size Learning Curve Kayak, together with necessary gear and teacher training, to BCU standards. We of course supply all equipment at raw cost.

- – - -

As you know much of our sport has it’s roots in the Inuit culture of Greenland and this is a great opportunity to give something back.  I like the idea that it focuses on the children, allowing them another opportunity to explore a part of their history and culture that may otherwise not be available to them.  A sense of pride goes a long way in helping children through tough times.  The Kayaks to Schools project is one great way to help these kids appreciate their history, build themselves up, and have a bit of fun in the process.

For more information and to make donations head on over to Greenland Kayaks.

* thanks to Gordon Brown for sending along the info & to Baldvin Kristjnsson for use of the pic.

Related Posts:

1. Kayaks of Greenland
2. 350
3. Something New From Superior Kayaks
4. SeaBird Kayaks On The Way
5. Phillip Maas Siggelkow