BOUNTIFUL—Military families from several different branches of service braved the cold over the weekend to jump into canoes on Bountiful Lake as part of the “Canoemobile Paddle Event for Military Families.” The activity was hosted by national nonprofits Blue Star Families (BSF) and Wilderness Inquiry (WI). 

“It was cold, but so much fun!” said Marcie Valdez I Executive Director, Utah Chapter

Blue Star Families Staff. “We had over 100 people participate in this event, including Hill Air Force Base, the Utah Air National Guard, the Utah Army National Guard, the Army Reserves, and we had several veteran families join us as well.”

Wilderness Inquiry is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making the outdoors accessible to all, she said. “Their focus is on inclusion, adventure, and education. Since its founding in 1978, WI has worked to break down barriers to outdoor recreation by providing equitable access to nature-based experiences for people of all backgrounds, abilities, and communities.”

BSF and WI have partnered since 2021 to expand outdoor recreation opportunities for military families, Valdez said. “We are so lucky to be able to offer this national programming to military families in Utah through the Blue Star Families, Utah Chapter.”

Valdez said their outdoor programs are designed to enhance physical, mental, spiritual and social well-being through outdoor engagement. “It strengthens family bonds and promotes resilience, community-building, and holistic well-being. This program reduces barriers to outdoor engagement by making nature welcoming, accessible, and inclusive.”

Weber State University and Davis Technical College provided activities on land too such as bird watching, plant identification and art, she said. “One of our families mentioned they appreciated that there were activities that made it fun for the whole family. Many of the families had never been canoeing or had visited Bountiful Pond. Families expressed appreciation for the opportunity to engage with a beautiful area that is so close to their homes and easily accessible.”

Military families who are looking for ways to engage with their community are encouraged to connect with the Utah Chapter at Utah - Blue Star Families. The Utah Chapter is also looking for volunteers and supporters. To learn more about how you or your company can support military families in Utah, contact Marcie Valdez at [email protected] or 801-660-0385.