Makin Wake is a journey to raise $100,000 to sponsor countless families who are staying at Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). RMHC provides essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families, and promote healing when children need healthcare.

On June 10, Makin Wake’s founder Darren Hayes launched on a 5,500-mile expedition around The Great Loop by pontoon to raise awareness and support for RMHC of Tampa Bay.

Darren started his journey in St. Petersburg, FL, where he then headed south around Florida, and is now heading up the east coast towards New York, through the locks to the Great Lakes, and will arrive at the halfway point in Michigan City, Indiana, He will then head for Chicago, down the Illinois river to the Mississippi River, and continue all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. He will then cross from Mobile, Alabama to Tarpon Springs, Florida and then ending in Treasure Island, Florida to officially complete the loop!

Over the course of Makin Wake’s journey, we will be sharing many updates on social media. Follow along on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Along the way, we will also be selling Makin Wake merchandise, with proceeds directly benefitting RMHC.

It costs RMHC roughly $70 per night to house a family whose child is in the hospital. Many families have to travel hours from home and miss work to be with their child in a time of need. RMHC graciously houses and feeds these families and with your help, we can support them in making a positive difference in the lives of local families during a time of great need.

At the end of our four-month journey on the water, we will share the total amount raised for RMHC, which we are hoping will meet or exceed our 100K goal!