Anchored in Community
A Partnership that Brings New Perspectives
There is something special about seeing Duluth from the water. For local seniors, a pontoon ride along the St. Louis River offers more than beautiful views. It creates an opportunity to connect, reminisce and make new memories.
What began in 2014 as an idea among community members, including several who worked in senior housing, has grown into a beloved tradition. While canoeing on the St. Louis River, the group wondered how they could share the experience with seniors, including those who use wheelchairs or walkers. With the help of grants, they purchased a custom-designed pontoon built to welcome people of all abilities.
After beginning on Fish Lake and later moving to Spirit Lake Marina, the program eventually found its home at Pier B. Today, approximately 65 trained volunteers, including 20 captains, help make nearly 90 outings possible each year.
For longtime captain and volunteer trainer Eric Kaiser, the experience is about so much more than a boat ride. With a background in education and special education, Eric brings a deep understanding of working with people with physical disabilities and has helped develop training focused on safety, accessibility and making every passenger feel comfortable.
Memories Made on the Water
Over the years, the rides have brought countless special moments. Passengers have shared stories of working on ships, memories of Fraser Shipyards and experiences traveling the St. Louis River decades ago. One woman in her 80s had never been on the water because she couldn’t swim. Though nervous at first, she decided to give it a try. When she returned to shore, she was filled with excitement. It was the first time she had ever been on the water.
Stories like these are at the heart of the experience. The rides give older adults the chance to spend time with friends, enjoy the beauty of the outdoors and reconnect with memories from throughout their lives. They also offer a chance to see Duluth from a new perspective and experience the history of the harbor and river in a deeply personal way.
A Partnership Rooted in Community
The program is also a beautiful example of what can happen when a community comes together. Partnerships with us, Pier B, Rotary clubs, veterans’ organizations, faith communities and other senior living communities help make these experiences possible.
For the volunteers, the relationships are just as meaningful. They see familiar faces year after year, build friendships with residents and staff, and have the privilege of hearing the stories that make each person unique.
“Our community is grateful every summer for this privileged opportunity. It is a well-rounded experience that brings together knowledge of our area from both volunteers and residents,” shares Kelly, Westwood Wellness Coordinator,” The memories shared of what the area once was and what we all hope it can grow to be make this partnership especially meaningful.”
At the end of the day, it is more than a pontoon ride. It is a chance to experience something new, revisit something remembered and simply enjoy being together.
And sometimes, a beautiful afternoon on the water is all it takes to create a memory that lasts a lifetime.
