Safety Paddling

We are seeking paddlers with kayaking / SUP experience to be our swimmer's eyes, ears and direction support while they are in the water. Safety paddling isn't providing lifeguarding or swimmer rescues - we rely on 911 for that. No boat or PFD required. More details about safety protocols, compensation, schedule, and signing up can be found below!

Scheduling: The River Huggers swim six days a week from June through September, with more swims offered during July and August. Paddlers must arrive 15 minutes before the first swim to ensure they are ready with their boats in the water by the swim start time. One shift is a 60 - 90 minute commitment, depending on the time of the season. Paddlers can sign up for shifts ahead of time on our Sign Up Genius.

Shifts:

Monday: 6:45 AM ~ 8:30 AM

Tuesday: 6:45 AM ~ 8:30 AM; 5:45 PM  ~ 6:45 PM

Wednesday: 6:45 AM ~ 8:30 AM

Thursday: 6:45 AM ~ 8:30 AM; 5:45 PM  ~ 6:45 PM

Friday: 6:45 AM ~ 8:30 AM

Saturday: 8:45 AM ~ 9:45 AM

Compensation: River Huggers fundraise to be able to pay a stipend to paddlers who would benefit from it. As such, paddlers are eligible to receive $30 per paddle session. At the end of the season, paddlers may select to receive their payment in the form of a stipend, Hugger merch, or to donate their hours back to the team.

Interested in paddling with us? Please first review the River Hugger Safety Paddler Guide and Paddler Checklist and then contact us to find out more/sign up.