How to get free life jackets/pfd's for non-profit kayak club?

Question

I was just thinking about this and thought I'd run it by the group.

I am involved with a free kayaking program that does a lot of work with schools, local community groups, etc. They get a little money through voluntary donations here and there but basically they are broke. This is reflected in the dirty/battered life-jackets they provide to people who come down for a paddle. The PFDs still work well, but yuck!

It seems to me that there should be some way that a company that sells or makes life vests could get good PR out of donating a new supply of PFDs to a program like this. But I would not know where to start in order to make that happen.

Any ideas?

Thanks!!!

Answer 1

Ask the shop that sells jackets if they are interested, or could point you towards their manufacturer.

Or get some local business to sponsor you.

Of course, they get to put their logo on the jackets.

Or just have a wash-the-jackets party.

Answer 2

Try your local Wal-Mart.  They have community grant money available.  Ask for the application at the service desk and talk to the store manager and explain in person what you do and how you are involved locally.