SHORELINES

9 a p c s hor e l i n e s.c om | 2015 Vol :3 "Growing up, my family spent a lot of time at the lake and those were some of my favorite memories as a child. I wanted to be a part to be able to provide the same opportunity for these children," Greene said. "It is also a privilege to support the parents of the Big Oak Ranch; they dedicate their lives to these children and it was fun getting to see them relax for the day with us." For the families, it's a chance to get away and enjoy the lake. "Our children look forward to this every year," said Robin O'Leary, a housemom accompanying three of her sons. "They are having a blast out here." For the Smith Lake team, the passion for sharing the love of the lake with Big Oak Ranch each year is contagious. "It is such a great experience," said Cary DeWitte, another event organizer. "Restaurants donate food, marinas donate wakeboards, equipment, etc., and volunteers come from across the community." More than the community support, the volunteers are passionate about the confidence and the experience they can provide each child. "This is an opportunity for us to connect with the kids and build trust. The cool thing about water sports is it challenges you to get outside your comfort zone," DeWitte explained. "But what's cool about this event is that they have motivation from their houseparents and us as boat drivers there to support them." Plans are underway for next year's event at Smith Lake and the momentum continues to build for Wake the World as it grows to 27 events in 23 states and Canada. "It's amazing the people God puts in your life," Hodgin said. "I'd rather have people give action than money, and we have a great team of people who want to give back." For more information about Wake the World, visit waketheworld.org. – ALLISON WESTL AK E Above: Photo by nik layman — More than 100 children with 24 houseparents attended Wake the World on Smith Lake this summer.

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