Eli Shumaker

he/him
Massage Therapist for LGBTQ Community
Kayak Enthusiast

“I always thought kayaking was fun, but I don’t think I ever really had the opportunity before there was a place like Kayak Pittsburgh around.”

As a professional massage therapist, Eli helps his clients address the stress and trauma that’s so prevalent in the world right now. During the start of the COVID-19 pandemic he did what a lot of people were doing and took to the outdoors to for stress relief. He kayaked three or four times a week and it helped him find peace and joy.

Now that Eli has found his new favorite activity, he wants to share it with his community. He created a Facebook group for LGBTQ kayakers.  Feel free to join the group and look out for group LGBTQ kayaking coming soon.

Kayak Pittsburgh was there to equip him with a boat, paddle, lifejacket, and the guidance to get on the water. This community resource couldn’t exist without the fantastic members, donors, and of course the people who paddle with us each and every day. Thanks!