Special canoe rides take the disabled and teens into Santa Barbara waters

Canoe rides from the Wilderness Inquiry Canoemobile program brought smiles to many people this week in Santa Barbara.

The Wilderness Inquiry specializes in out door experience opportunities for those who would not normally go on their own or have challenges due to physical or mental setbacks.

There were about 50 members of the Alpha Resource Center in canoes at the Santa Barbara harbor on Thursday in a program sponsored by the local clothing company Toad and Co.

The specially trained crew is able to help those with needs safely enjoy the canoe trips on the ocean or, in other locations, on rivers and lakes.

Alpha participants also went to Cachuma Lake for an overnight camping trip too.

The Canoemobile project has been to Santa Barbara five times before.

Wednesday the Police Activities League (PAL) participated in a trip with local teens.

Those on board learn about the environment and water safety.

They also have hands on paddling and team building.

Based on these experiences those involved have confidence building and career readiness if they choose to work in the outdoor or environmental fields.

Organizers say they can create trips based on what ever level of mobility a person has.

For more information go to: https://www.wildernessinquiry.org/

The Wildnerness Inquiry was in town for three days.

The next stop will be Sacramento.