‘There’s hope’: Mass float returns to Wasilla Lake

WASILLA — A lake float event set for this month on Wasilla Lake aims to encourage addiction recovery and community connection.

The fourth annual Float for Hope is scheduled for June 21 from noon to 3 p.m. at Everett’s Restaurant. The free event will include food, tube floating, games and testimonials from individuals who have struggled with addiction and related challenges, organizers said.

More than two dozen state agencies and private organizations are expected to attend. Organizers said they anticipate about 400 people will participate.

The float is meant to bring hope to those in need of support and to help community members impacted by addiction, said event organizer Shannon Harris.

“The end vision is filling the lake with hope. People out there floating for recovery and for those out there who are suffering,” Harris said.

The highlight of the event is a mass float on the lake during which participants circle a “hope” sign and recite the Lord’s Prayer.

“It’s just a fun, unique way to bring hope to the community and get the message out that there is hope,” Harris said.

Participants are welcome to bring their own flotation devices, including kayaks and paddleboards, Harris said. Arctic Valley Ski Area will also contribute 80 tubes used for snow tubing during the winter months, officials said.

The Mat-Su Borough Water Rescue Team will be on site to ensure safety, and life vests will be available.

The annual Float for Hope is run by a small group of volunteers who have raised money through T-shirt and bake sales, Harris said. Any proceeds not spent on this year’s event will go toward next year’s Float for Hope, she said.

Harris said she felt called to organize the event because of her own past struggles with addiction.

“Life is hard, but no matter how hard it is, there’s hope,” she said. “You don’t have to do it alone. There are resources out there, and people and a community that cares.”

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