We are The Water Adventure Centre (WAC), a dedicated charity that has been a part of the community for 48 years, with a mission to support children and young people, particularly those from low-income families, through engaging and empowering activities. We believe in providing positive experiences that help young people build self-confidence, develop valuable skills, and enjoy a sense of belonging within their community.
Our team consists of passionate youth workers and volunteers who are committed to making a difference in the lives of young people. We focus on creating a safe, welcoming environment where young people can thrive, both indoors at our youth club and outdoors on the canal.
As well as the youth clubs, we are open to the public to come and book sessions to explore the water. We have regular bookings with, schools, disability groups and other youth providers.
Our Vision:
At WAC, our vision is simple – to offer young people opportunities they might not otherwise have access to. We use kayaking and paddleboarding as powerful tools to engage with the youth in our programmes. These activities not only promote physical health but also encourage teamwork, communication, and resilience. For many of our participants, these water-based activities are life-changing, offering them the chance to learn new skills and enjoy the outdoors in a supportive and non-judgemental environment.
We aim to be a beacon of opportunity for children and young people who are often overlooked, particularly those in low-income families who may not have access to outdoor recreational activities. Through our sessions, we offer them a chance to grow, learn, and have fun.
How We Will Use the Money:
The funds we raise will be used to directly improve the experience and opportunities we offer our young people. Specifically, the money will go towards:
- New Equipment: Purchasing additional kayaks, paddleboards, and safety gear to ensure that more young people can participate in our outdoor sessions.
- Youth Club Improvements: Enhancing our indoor space so it remains a safe and comfortable environment where young people can gather, learn, and take part in activities beyond the water sessions.
- Staff and Volunteer Training: Ensuring that our youth workers and volunteers have the training and support they need to deliver high-quality, engaging sessions, including mental health awareness and safeguarding.
- Subsidised Sessions: Ensuring that no young person is excluded from our activities due to financial barriers, providing free or subsidised places for those in need.
Your support will enable us to continue to engage young people in positive, life-enriching activities, helping them gain confidence, build new skills, and discover a love for the outdoors. Together, we can offer these young people a safe space to explore, grow, and thrive, no matter their background.
Join us on our mission to make a difference.