Water sports foundation will collaborate with leading boating and paddling media brands and social media influencers to increase awareness of level 50 life jackets

The U.S. Coast Guard awarded a $150,000 Cooperative Agreement to Water Sports Foundation, Inc. under the National Nonprofit Organization Recreational Boating Safety Grant Program (CFDA 97.135) for the period October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. The Foundation will develop and disseminate a comprehensive public awareness campaign focused on Level 50 life jackets, producing informational videos, articles, and educational materials that describe the advantages, limitations, and proper use of these flotation devices.

The initiative leverages partnerships with leading boating and paddling media brands and social media influencers to amplify outreach among key stakeholder groups including retailers, rental liveries, and boating professionals. A dedicated website will serve as a centralized repository for free downloadable resources, while industry partnerships will extend the campaign's reach across the recreational boating and paddling sectors. This award reflects the Coast Guard's continued investment in national-scope boating safety interventions designed to minimize loss of life and injury on domestic waterways.

The initiative will produce informational videos, articles, and educational materials describing the advantages, limitations, and proper use of these flotation devices. A dedicated website will host resources for free download, while industry partnerships will amplify outreach among retailers, rental liveries, and boating professionals.