Photo: Paddle Fest will be held on Saturday, May 13, beginning on Black Mingo Creek and ending with a festival at Tara Hall Home for Boys.

This annual event, now in its sixth year, begins on the water. Hundreds of paddlers will head down Black Mingo Creek, taking in the beautiful spring weather. Whether their choice of watercraft is kayak, canoe or paddleboard, participants will navigate a scenic two-mile route, coming ashore at the Tara Hall campus.

After joining those already on land, the paddlers and attendees will enjoy a great day of music from live local bands, as well as delicious food and more. Children’s activities will abound, including waterslides, face painting and afternoon races with kayaks for the older kids and barrel races for the younger set.

Aside from having a blast on the water and creek-side, the day will be a fundraiser for the Tara Hall Home for Boys. Nationally accredited Tara Hall is a long-term residential home and school that accepts boys who are neglected, troubled and abused. Each case is different, but whether they are taken away from abuse and neglect or sent away because of unmanageable behavior, Tara Hall offers a home. Here they can come together in the home as brothers and leave as changed young men.

“This is what it is really all about—the boys at Tara Hall,” says Patsy Morris, assistant director. “We want everyone to come out and enjoy themselves and remember that they are helping improve the lives of local boys and giving them a second chance.”

This year’s fundraising goal is $50,000, and several sponsorship opportunities are available, ranging from $250 to $2,500. Contributions of any amount are welcome. Those who want to take part in the main event of paddling can register on Tara Hall’s website for $25–$40.

Paddle Fest -- Saturday, May 13

Tara Hall Home for Boys, 510 Tara Hall Road, Georgetown

Saturday, visit website for times.
Paddlers, $25–$40; non-paddlers, $5–$10.
(843) 546-3000, www.tarahall.org