HANNAWA FALLS -- Final preparations for the ninth annual Swim a Mile for Hospice Saturday, Aug. 11 are underway.

Dozens of registered swimmers will take to the Raquette River at Postwood Park in Hannawa Falls at 8 a.m. that day.

Each adult swimmer is asked to raise at least $100 for Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley. Youth swimmers age 14 to 17 are asked to raise $50, and swimmers 12 to 14 try to raise $25. 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. “Thanks to the swimmers who have registered, their generous supporters and corporate sponsors, we are more than halfway to reaching our goal of raising $30,000 to enhance the care and services provided by Hospice in the community” said Kellie of Hospice.

Visit www.swimamileforhospice.org or call 315-265-3105 for more information or to register. Those who don’t swim are encouraged to join in as a volunteer on the beach or, if you have a kayak or canoe, as a spotter on the safety team.

“I expect us to reach 75 to 80 participants by the time we all jump in,” Hitchman said. “We will see some last minute registrations throughout the week and we always have a few that sign up that morning. Registration remains open until the swim begins” she said.

The event has grown steadily in popularity year after year, bringing back previous participants and adding newcomers each year. “We added the option of a half mile course a few years ago which has created even more interest. We heard from many people who wanted to participate and support Hospice, but they just weren’t sure if they could do the whole mile” said Hitchman.

“I think the real reason people keep coming back year after year is the atmosphere on the beach. It’s really incredible. Swim a Mile for Hospice has become its own community of sorts. When everyone gets in the water swimming ability doesn’t matter. Everyone is very welcoming and supportive of one another.”

“We are off to one of our best starts yet to achieving our fundraising goal. Community support is essential to helping our work continue. There is roughly a $20 per patient, per day deficit between the care we provide and what we are reimbursed for. Its important for all of our supporters to know that a donation in any amount does make a sincere difference for our patients,” Hitchman said.