Help Allison raise money

Hello friends and family,

This is my first time swimming the Point to La Pointe race! As many of you know, open water swimming is a passion of mine. I started lap swimming at the YMCA in fall 2022, starting slow and watching YouTube videos to learn technique. In 2024, I transitioned to swimming outdoors during the summers at Lake Nokomis and Cedar Lake as part of the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Open Swim Club. I participated in my first open water swim race in June 2024.

Time in the water for me promotes mindfulness and a connection to nature; therefore, I am excited to try this adventure - swimming 2.1 miles across Lake Superior from Bayfield, Wisconsin to Madeline Island. Through hard work and dedication I have learned to breathe on both sides to navigate the waves, I have practiced buoy sighting to stay on course, and I have completed The Great Lake Superior Swim (2-mile race) twice, giving me confidence to approach a new endeavor in our beloved freshwater lake. I also thankfully have found a wetsuit that takes less than 30 minutes to pull on ;).

I opted into the fundraising registration option for the race, which means I need to raise at least $400 to meet the minimum required amount of $500 to swim the event. No pressure to participate. I am reaching out first to friends and family who enjoy outdoor recreation and know what community-based groups can do for social inclusion and overall health. 

Donations received will benefit Recreation and Fitness Resources, a nonprofit organization based in Bayfield, WI whose goal is "to provide affordable programs, classes, and events that promote healthful, fun, and active lifestyles. We operate the Bayfield Rec Center, North Coast Community Sailing, and the Point to La Pointe Open Water Swim...Our programs, classes, and activities provide much needed economic support to our small communities and our Fundraising Events allow us to maintain operations and provide financial scholarships to families and individuals who could not otherwise have access. For youth, our programs like swimming and sailing lessons, help children develop independence, self-reliance, and confidence. For seniors our Silver Sneaker’s and Aqua Fit classes, help seniors maintain cognitive abilities and physical strength, and provide a place to socialize and gather. For families, our pool provides a safe environment in which families can enjoy time together. For the local economy – our events provide a much-needed economic boost. Hotels and campgrounds are sold out the weekend of the swim and restaurants, bars, and local stores receive an influx of visitors and shoppers."

I appreciate your consideration and love you all!