Dawn Patrol:

In July I attended and reported on the “Pipeline to a Cure” event held at the Newport Aquatic Center in support of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation where I met some famous surfers and stand-up paddle boarders like Dave Kalama, Mickey Muñoz and Jericho Poplar.

This month the Newport Aquatic Center will host an equally worthy event: the “Paddle for Hope Fun’raiser. It’s a day of paddling and fun to support and raise awareness for Boys Hope Girls Hope (BHGH), a non-profit organization that helps children from rough backgrounds.

“There are a lot of children who come from circumstances that won’t allow them to realize their dreams,” Executive Director Robin Sinclair said.

Kids between 10 and 14 who are homeless or in distressed domestic situations from poverty, violence or other negative factors can find help at a BHGH group home where they are provided with security, supervision and a stable, nurturing environment.

There the kids complete their education through college level and avoid the all too prevalent alternatives of drugs, gangs and teen pregnancy.

They’ve got some recent success stories, such as two students at Boston College, and a Chapman University grad who is going for her CPA.

Though BHGH is a non-denominational organization, Mater Dei and Rosary Catholic high schools provide full scholarships for BHGH kids.

Robin has enlisted the help of friends and fellow Newport Harbor High alumni Billy Whitford, Executive Director of NAC, and Brian Hovnanian, local businessman, surfer and surfboard maker.

In addition to hosting the event, NAC will supply kayaks, outriggers and staff.

Brian is bringing several of his “Hovie” stand-up paddle boards that he is now making ( www.hoviesup.com).

He told me about the “Nomad” model he’ll be introducing. It’s a 12-foot board with fore and aft gear tie-downs, designed for long distance flat-water exploration.

Brian will be at NAC to tell people about the benefit to core fitness that paddling promotes and share his enthusiasm for the world’s fastest growing sport.

He’ll also help as an instructor for those who want to try their hand at SUP.

Paddle for Hope will be held Oct. 25 from 3-7 p.m. It’s open to the public and a tax deductible donation of $25 is requested. Food and opportunity drawings will be part of the festivities.

BHGH is hoping the aquatic function will attract some new friends of the program.

So if you’re looking for a way to give back to the community and get out on the water at the same time this looks like a great opportunity.

You can learn more about Boys Hope Girls Hope and the Paddle for Hope Fun’raiser at www.bhghsocal.org or by calling the office at (949) 515-8833.

JOHN BURTON’S surf column appears Fridays. He may be reached by e-mail at [email protected].