Campus Life was awarded a $1,000 Grow Boating Grant from NMTA. We recently caught up with Ashley Umbarger, Executive Director of Campus Life, to learn how the program is helping introduce more young people to the water.
For those unfamiliar, what does Campus Life do?
Located in Hermiston, Oregon, Campus Life mentors students of all ages and backgrounds, including kids facing challenges such as family instability, substance use, academic struggles, and tough decision-making moments. Our approach is grounded in consistent, relationship-based mentoring combined with leadership development and positive community experiences. We aim to help students find hope, purpose, and stability—and over the years we’ve watched many turn their lives around, improve their grades, make healthier choices, and build confidence in every part of their lives.
How were the NMTA grant dollars used?
NMTA’s support directly funded our summer boating program on the Columbia River. Thanks to the grant, more than 60 students spent time on the water learning and participating in ski boating, tubing, wakeboarding, and swimming. The funding covered boat use, fuel, safety equipment, activity supplies, and the logistical support required to run multiple safe, well-organized boating days.
Did the grant allow you to do something you otherwise couldn’t have?
Absolutely. Without NMTA’s support, many of our students would never have the chance to experience boating or water sports at all. The grant enabled us to offer a full, robust program instead of a scaled-down version, and it allowed us to reach new kids who weren’t previously involved with Campus Life. Many of those students are now in ongoing mentoring relationships with us during the school year.
How did the program help advance NMTA’s Grow Boating mission?
The impact was significant:
- Introducing new boaters: More than 60 students—many stepping on a boat for the first time—experienced boating in a safe, welcoming environment.
- Supporting diversity and inclusion: Our participants represent a wide mix of ages, ethnicities, and income levels. On the water, everyone started on equal footing and felt included.
- Boosting enthusiasm among emerging boaters: Students with limited prior boating experience gained confidence, learned new skills, and expressed strong interest in continuing water sports.
- Creating future boaters: Tubing, wakeboarding, and skiing helped many discover a new passion—exactly the kind of lifelong connection the Grow Boating mission aims to spark.