Who We Are

The concept for Hopes Float began in 2001.  Jesse Adams read about a program in Grand Junction, CO in which a group home owned a handicapped accessible boat, and was recruiting volunteers through the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW). Mr. Adams researched the opportunities for fishing for disabled individuals along the Front Range, and found there are no programs to offer fishing and boating experiences to this population.

Mr. Adams pursued the idea of a similar project through the DOW in Northern Colorado and was informed that the DOW’s budget would not allow the launch of a program of this size.  Mr. Adams began the process of organization to obtain the funds necessary to support this program. In 2006, Hopes Float obtained its nonprofit status and the pontoon boat was purchased and donated to the corporation.

In 2007, the boat modifications were completed. These modifications included removing the standard bench seats and installing wheelchair locks and drop in seats. The boat will accommodate 4 wheelchair clients and their families. With the drop in seats in place, the boat will provide 6 fishing stations. In addition a ramp is installed to facilitate the loading and unloading of wheelchair clients. In the spring of 2008, Hopes Float volunteers completed the Colorado Boating Safety Course and became certified. The first trip was launched on June 7, 2008, and to date have completed 10 trips, and served over 90 individuals ranging in age from 8 years to 92 years.