More to the Story with Staley: The H2O Life

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — Not everybody likes to be outdoors. For many reasons, there are a good number of people who like to stay inside. But for one Chattanooga woman, she’s made it her goal to get as many folks as possible on the trails and waterways.

“I’ll be honest with you. COVID-19 sparked this. We all struggled at times. For me, I simply could not stay inside any longer,” said Shawanna Kendrick, founder of the H2O Life.

And with that, Shawanna Kendrick stepped outside and starting walking, hiking and canoeing. Anything and everything to become one with nature, doing things she had never done before.

In the dark days of the pandemic, January of 2021, she started The H2O Life. Hiking, Healing and Outdoors. Highlighting the benefits of outdoor activity.

“Honestly, I was afraid. I knew it had the potential to be something bigger,” Kendrick added. “But I’ve now embraced its impact. And I welcome the growth.”

The H2O Life is unique. Because it’s essentially the only outdoors organization of sorts in our area that is built specifically for women of color.

Shawanna’s goal is to create a safe space for women and develop outdoor leaders.

She is looking for women of color to get some exercise and try something different, overcome any fears.

“The hidden gem in all of this is that there are healing properties in nature that you can’t see. But you can experience it- mentally and physically. It can all be found outdoors,” Kendrick said.

Late next month, the annual Chatt-Town Cool-Down paddle event will take place.

Shawanna’s goal is to put 100 women on the water for the event.

“This is a free event. And I’m grateful to our partners who will help us with that event,” Kendrick concluded.

Head to their website for more information. Shawanna says she’ll take you to places that are safe and welcoming. Places maybe you’ve never been before.