Ian Smith 12/15/15 Ian Smith 12/15/15

SurfSUP Kon-O-Kwee

Camp Kon-O-Kwee Spencer lies on the shores of what is arguably the finest venue for whitewater paddleboard instruction in Pennsylvania. Connoquenessing Creek, known locally as “the Connie,” boasts miles of class I to III rapids, and a river wave as smooth as glass after a good rain. The camp itself is a stunning sprawl of wooded acreage and beautiful log cabins. While the whitewater and facilities are ideal, the Connie does have a darker side. Not long ago, it was considered one of the most polluted waterways in the Country, and still faces many environmental challenges. To illustrate the opportunities presented by the stream, along with solutions for conservation and education for youth, First Waves’ partnered with the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh and Camp Kon-O-Kwee Spencer for an inaugural residency expedition to the creek.

Ian Smith 8/31/15 Ian Smith 8/31/15

ADVENTURE FILMMAKING

At first glance, a group of teens yielding camera equipment and various electronics around water seems like a bad idea. Now, incorporate the instability of standup paddleboards, whitewater rapids, and the goal of scooping up every piece of trash we float by! “A recipe for catastrophe,” some will crow. At First Waves, our eyes bulge and mouths water at this morsel of contrast, challenge, and adventure.

Ian Smith 7/7/15 Ian Smith 7/7/15

First Waves Partners With G-FORM

First Waves is all about adventure. Learning to perform outside your comfort zone is what enables participants to grow, and inspire others. But like any proper adventure, there are obstacles to overcome. For First Waves, one of these obstacles are the rocks that surround the waves and rapids we surf and document. To stay protected, First Waves is proud to announce its latest partner, G-Form Protection.

Ian Smith 2/2/15 Ian Smith 2/2/15

FILM PREMIERE

The moment has finally arrived! The inaugural First Wave Film Premiere is set for Friday, February 20th at 7:00pm at the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh offices. Attendance is FREE. Please RSVP at our facebook event page: Here.