Local Youth Enjoy Spending Time Outdoors

Participants in the M-HC After 3 Program are learning to enjoy the outdoors through a series of programs provided in partnership with the Dan River Basin Association (DRBA). Over thirty Middle School aged youth from the Martinsville YMCA and Spencer-Penn Center summer programs recently spent a day hiking at the Richard P. Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve and canoeing on the Smith River.

Playing games at the Richard P. Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve

The group rented boats for the event from Smith River Junction in Fieldale, VA. Volunteers from DRBA and the Smith River Valley Canoe Club taught the youth basic paddling techniques and river safety tips, before paddling 5 miles down the Smith River with them from Fieldale to Doe Run. After a little practice, the youth got the hang of paddling and had a great time!

Learning to paddle takes practice!

Brian Williams of DRBA in "The Shark Boat"

M-HC After 3 leader, Jerelle Carter takes a turn kayaking.

Martinsville YMCA youth taking a dip in the river to cool off!

Youth from Spencer-Penn Center approaching the boat ramp at Doe Run

See more pictures here: http://www.pbase.com/rsweatt/mhstrip

Thanks to all who assisted with this trip!

• Volunteers: Jim & Alissa Martin, Randy Cook, Randy Sweatt, Jamie Walker & Betty Kirkpatrick
• DRBA Staff: Brian Williams & Jennifer Doss
• Buster Ferguson and the staff of Smith River Junction Outfitters