Swimmers, volunteers and supporters gather for a group photo following the 5th Annual Swim a Mile for Hospice last year. Sixty-three swimmers participated and raised more than $27,000 to support patient and family services.

HANNAWA FALLS -- Dozens of swimmers will take to the water on Saturday, Aug. 1 raising money as they Swim a Mile for Hospice.

The sixth annual swim begins at 8 a.m. Swimmers will depart from Postwood Park beach, navigating the mile-long course around Hannawa Pond and returning to the beach.

Last year this non-competitive event brought together 63 recreational swimmers ranging in age from teens through 80s. Participants will be grouped by ability and will complete the course at their own pace.

New options this year are testing the event out over a half-mile course and a lower age of participation at 12 years old.

“We have been listening to people in the community over the last several years to try to improve the event,” said organizer Kellie Hitchman. “Many people have expressed an interest in supporting Hospice through the swim, but are unsure if they can do the full distance. We also heard lots of feedback from area swim coaches who felt they had swimmers younger than 14 who are capable of participating. Together, with Michelle Garrow of Potsdam Recreation, we decided it was a good time to add the option of a half-mile course. We feel its very important to include as many people who are interested as possible. We are also confident that once they experience the camaraderie and support of other participants on the beach they will be hooked” Hitchman said.

“The safety of participants is our top concern, she said. “We will have a fleet of kayaks, power boats, lifeguards and official safety personnel on hand to make sure everyone gets back to the beach. It is amazing to see the community come together on so many different levels to support Hospice,” she said.

Each swimmer is asked to raise at least $100 for Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley (youth swimmers ages 12 to 17 are asked to raise $50). This includes the $25 registration fee.

Swimmers, boaters and other volunteers will enjoy a light breakfast and will receive a tee shirt and other tokens for their participation. “When swimmers register online, the website creates a personal fundraising page for them. They can post it on social media or email it to friends and family to make their fundraising efforts easy,” Hitchman said.

In addition, the school whose students as a group raise the most money for Swim a Mile for Hospice will have a special trophy to display at their school until next year’s event. Last year, with the help of Aida Shippley, Canton Central School remained the top fundraising school.

When asked why she was participating again this year, one swimmer replied, “After my first year I just knew I wanted to sign up again. I just love the spirit of it. I love everyone getting together to contribute towards such a great cause while simultaneously having an absolute blast! Couldn't think of a better way to spend a beautiful summer morning.”

To register for Swim a Mile for Hospice, go to www.swimamileforhospice.org or call the hospice office in Potsdam at 265-3105.