Paddlers have made it,
but the summer has just begun!
Why Do We Paddle?
We paddle to raise funds for the UrbanPromise StreetLeader Program, a leadership development program that trains teens in:
- Servant leadership
- Academic development
- College preparation
- Community
- Outdoor experiential opportunities.
UPW is one of the largest year-round employers of teens in Delaware.
Highlights of the 2026 Paddle for Promise
Fastest Kayak: Dr. Chuck Bean 1 hr 55 minutes
Fastest Canoe: Tobie White and Robbie Shand 1 hour 22 minutes
Fastest Voyager: Brandywine Valley coming in at 1 hour 28 minutes
Top Three Fundraising Teams:
Brandywine Wakemakers
Go with the Flow
City Church of Wilmington
Top Three Individual Fundraisers:
Blair Althouse
Nathan Keeler
Ryan Kennedy
Favorite Costumed Teams!
‘Gavin’s Birthday Pirates’ & ‘The Crazy Green Man and the Crazy Greek’
Some Photos Highlights of June 6th, 2026
Why Do We Paddle?
We paddle to raise funds for the UrbanPromise StreetLeader Program, a leadership development program that trains teens in:
- Servant leadership
- Academic development
- College preparation
- Community
- Outdoor experiential opportunities.
UPW is one of the largest year-round employers of teens in Delaware.
While we build community and raise funds together, there is also some fun, friendly competition.
1. Fastest Time (canoe or kayak)
2. Most Funds Raised (team and individual)
3. Best Costume (purely for fun!)
Individuals, churches, or businesses are welcome to enter multiple boats. We just ask that the boat’s crew raise funds for our StreetLeaders. Last year we had over 102 paddlers who raised $101,000!