The 2026 Paddler Pledge
Supporting Maui County families facing cancer. Strengthening the future of Paddle for Life.
For 17 years, Paddle for Life has been powered by the dedication of paddlers, volunteers, donors, sponsors, and community partners who believe that no one should face cancer alone.
Together, this community has raised more than $2 million to help provide patient navigation, transportation assistance, nutritional support, wellness programs, and other free services for Maui County families facing cancer.
As we prepare for the 17th Annual Paddle for Life, we are entering a new chapter. The need for cancer support services continues to grow, and the resources required to safely produce a two-day inter-island voyage continue to increase.
The 2026 Paddler Pledge is designed to ensure that every participant plays a direct role in sustaining both the mission of Pacific Cancer Foundation and the future of Paddle for Life.
Why a Paddler Pledge?
For many years, Paddle for Life participants were able to fundraise the full cost of participation. As the event grew, a registration fee was introduced to help offset a portion of the costs associated with producing a two-day inter-island voyage.
Today, Paddle for Life includes escort vessels, safety personnel, medical support, permits, insurance, harbor fees, camping logistics, meals, participant gear, transportation coordination, and extensive event infrastructure.
At the same time, more Maui County families are turning to Pacific Cancer Foundation for support navigating cancer treatment, transportation challenges, nutrition needs, and wellness services.
The Paddler Pledge helps ensure that Paddle for Life can continue supporting these families while preserving the quality, safety, and spirit of the voyage for years to come.
Your Pledge
Registration Fee
Fundraising Pledge
Fundraising Checkpoint
Event Dates
$300
$1,000
$500 by August 15
October 3-4, 2026
Participation in Paddle for Life 2026 includes two separate commitments:
A $300 registration fee, paid at the time of registration.
An individual fundraising pledge of $1,000, to be raised separately in support of Pacific Cancer Foundation's mission.
Unlike previous years, the registration fee does not count toward your fundraising pledge and will not be applied to your personal fundraising total.
This change ensures that every paddler makes a direct fundraising impact for Maui County families facing cancer while also helping offset a portion of the costs required to safely produce the event.
While teams continue to play a vital role in supporting one another, the Paddler Pledge is an individual commitment designed to ensure that every participant contributes directly to the mission of Paddle for Life.
Every dollar raised through your fundraising page supports Pacific Cancer Foundation's free cancer support services throughout Maui County.
What Your Pledge Makes Possible
Every dollar raised through Paddle for Life stays in Maui County and helps provide free support services for individuals and families facing cancer.
Patient Navigation
Helping patients understand treatment options, access resources, coordinate appointments, and navigate the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.
Transportation Assistance
Providing rides and transportation support for treatment, medical appointments, and cancer-related care.
Nutritional Support
Connecting patients with nutrition education, healthy food resources, and support throughout treatment and recovery.
Wellness Programs
Supporting physical, emotional, and mental well-being through classes, workshops, support groups, and survivorship programs.
We Will Help You Succeed
You are not expected to do this alone.
Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or participating for the first time, Pacific Cancer Foundation will provide tools, resources, and support throughout the season.
Included Support
✓ Personal fundraising page
✓ Fundraising coaching and guidance
✓ Sample emails and outreach templates
✓ Social media graphics and fundraising tools
✓ Sponsor solicitation support
✓ Fundraising milestone recognition
✓ Ongoing communication and encouragement from the Paddle for Life team
Our success is shared. When paddlers succeed, Maui County families benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Your $300 registration fee helps offset a portion of the costs associated with producing Paddle for Life and includes:
Official Paddle for Life rashguard
Four event meals
Overnight camping accommodations on Lānaʻi
Safety escort boat support throughout the voyage
On-water medical support and emergency response
Event logistics, permits, and operational coordination
A personalized online fundraising page and fundraising tools
While the registration fee helps cover a portion of the event's operating costs, the true cost of producing a safe, two-day inter-island voyage is significantly greater. Your individual $1,000 fundraising pledge directly supports Pacific Cancer Foundation's free cancer support services for Maui County families facing cancer.
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No. Beginning in 2026, the $300 registration fee and the $1,000 individual fundraising pledge are two separate commitments.
The registration fee is paid at the time of registration and helps offset a portion of the costs associated with producing a safe and successful Paddle for Life experience, including event logistics, safety operations, meals, camping, participant gear, and support services.
Your $1,000 fundraising pledge is raised separately through your personal fundraising page and directly supports Pacific Cancer Foundation's free cancer support services for Maui County families facing cancer.
This change ensures that every paddler makes a direct fundraising impact while also helping sustain the event itself.
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Absolutely. Teams remain an important part of Paddle for Life. The Paddler Pledge simply ensures that every participant contributes directly to the mission through their own fundraising efforts.
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Many paddlers are first-time fundraisers. Pacific Cancer Foundation provides fundraising tools, coaching, templates, and support throughout the season.
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As both the demand for cancer support services and the complexity of producing a safe inter-island voyage continue to grow, the Paddler Pledge helps ensure that Paddle for Life remains sustainable, impactful, and available for future generations.
MORE THAN FUNDRAISING
Paddle for Life has never been solely about crossing a channel.
It is about honoring loved ones, supporting neighbors facing cancer, strengthening our community, and experiencing the healing power of the ocean together.
The Paddler Pledge is one more way we can collectively ensure that this voyage continues to make a meaningful difference for years to come.
READY TO TAKE THE PLEDGE?
Join the Paddle for Life ʻohana and help ensure that no one in Maui County faces cancer alone.