The Town of Pine Knoll Shores and its volunteers presenting the 18h Annual Kayak for the Warriors proceeds to Hope For The Warriors staff member, Danielle Rose.
PINE KNOLL SHORES, N.C. (August 26, 2025) – The Town of Pine Knoll Shores recently donated over $120,000 through its 18thAnnual Kayak for the Warriors. The annual event benefits Hope For The Warriors (HOPE), a national nonprofit serving post-9/11 veterans, service members and military families.
The multi-day event featured the Golf Ball Drop, Warrior Reception & Auctions, Warrior Golf Tournament and 3.2-mile kayak and paddle board race, and barbecue lunch.
Since 2008, Kayak for the Warriors has raised over $1,125,200 benefiting Hope For The Warriors and its programs.
“This year, Kayak for the Warriors marked one of its most successful seasons yet, thanks to the unwavering support of our incredible community,” event organizer Jean McDanal. Every paddle stroke, every auction bid, every golf shot and every volunteer hour helped fuel our mission: supporting local military personnel and their families with compassion, care, and commitment.
“We’re especially grateful to the Town of Pine Knoll Shores, whose continued backing makes our all-volunteer events possible. This town stands proudly behind our warriors—and we couldn’t do it without them. Here’s to the power of community, the strength of service, and the joy of giving back. Let’s keep the momentum going!”
Founded aboard Camp Lejeune, Hope For The Warriors assists veterans, service members and military families by providing financial, career and educational stability; physical and emotional strength; and social support that builds community.
“This community is where HOPE was formed over 20 years ago and thanks to the town of Pine Knoll Shores and its residents, HOPE is still here serving military families,” said Robin Kelleher, co-founder and CEO of the nonprofit organization. “We know the passion for service runs deep in this town as we’ve only seen these annual events grow each year, like this year breaking the town’s all time fundraising record. We’re honored to work with Pine Knoll Shores to continue to serve military families in Eastern North Carolina and along the Crystal Coast.”
The 2026 Kayak for the Warriors is slated to host its Tipsy Turtle May 28, Kayak/Paddleboard event, May 30, Warrior Reception & Auctions June 4, Warrior Golf Tournament June 12 and Golf Ball Drop September 24.
For more information, visit k4tw.org.
Media Contact
Hope For The Warriors
Erin McCloskey
erin@etmccloskey.com
(336) 207-5222
ABOUT HOPE FOR THE WARRIORS
Hope For The Warriors (HOPE) is a national leader driving transformative change for the post-9/11 U.S. military community (including veterans and active-duty service members as well as military caregivers, spouses and family members, and families of the fallen). At HOPE, our mission is to deliver unparalleled services that uplift individuals and their families as they navigate the complexities of military life. We are committed to fostering resilience and a sense of purpose, ensuring that those who have served our nation will thrive. Together, we forge a strong community that champions courage, commitment, and grit. To learn more or support our mission, visit hopeforthewarriors.org.
ABOUT WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT
Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers — helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more.
