Meet Roger
The beginnings
Roger’s passion for creating positive change in the Lake Houston community shines brightly through his incredible work. As the driving force behind Texas Adaptive Aquatics, the Lake Houston Christmas Boat Parade, Huffman Food Pantry and his tireless efforts with community cleanups like Trash Bash, Roger has proven time and again that one person can make a profound difference.
Turning Tragedy into Triumph
Roger’s journey with Texas Adaptive Aquatics began in 1989, following the devastating loss of his fiancée in an automobile accident. Determined to channel his grief into something meaningful, he launched the program to bring water skiing and aquatic recreation to individuals with disabilities. At the time, adaptive skiing was a small and underfunded industry. But Roger’s vision was clear: everyone deserved the chance to experience the joy and freedom of being on the water.
Water sports for people with Disabilities
Texas Adaptive Aquatics
T.A.A. offers participants the chance to discover the thrill and excitement of water skiing, sailing, and even duck and deer hunting. The program helps individuals overcome physical and mental barriers, allowing them to experience freedom, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment.
“Our program allows people to escape the confines of their wheelchairs and feel the excitement of a challenging sport,” Roger shares. “We’re here to show them what’s possible.”
Challenges and Growth
In 2017, T.A.A.’s facility on Lake Houston was destroyed by Hurricane Harvey. Despite the significant damage, Roger and his team pressed forward, relocating to a more secure three-acre property along the lake. The new facility, currently under development, will feature expanded overnight accommodations, accessible bathrooms, and a larger indoor dining and fellowship area to better serve the growing number of participants. “This new space will allow us to offer more accessible equipment and expand our programs,” Roger explains. However, fundraising has been challenging since the storm, and donations have decreased. Yet Roger’s determination remains steadfast: “We have a clear vision and a passion for the future.”
Impact and Outreach
Over the years, T.A.A. has helped more than 15,000 disabled individuals through its water sports training programs. Certified instructors provide safe and expert guidance, ensuring participants of all skill levels—from beginners to international competitors—can thrive.
Each year, T.A.A. reaches hundreds of participants through clinics hosted nationwide, offering specialized training in slalom, jumping, tricks, and more. All equipment is supplied through donations, keeping the program free for participants and their families.
Fun Christmas event
Lake Houston Christmas Boat Parade
The parade is a beloved annual tradition that brings the community together to celebrate the holiday season. Spearheaded by Roger, the event showcases beautifully decorated boats cruising across Lake Houston, spreading festive cheer and joy to spectators of all ages. Each year, participants go above and beyond, adorning their vessels with dazzling lights, holiday-themed decorations, and creative designs that reflect the spirit of the season. Families gather along the shores to enjoy the colorful spectacle, creating a magical atmosphere that embodies the warmth and togetherness of the holidays. For Roger, the parade is more than just a festive event—it’s a way to unite neighbors, celebrate the beauty of Lake Houston, and create lasting memories for everyone involved.
preserving lake Houston’s nature
Trash Bash
As an advocate for environmental stewardship, Roger is a key supporter of Trash Bash, an annual cleanup event focused on preserving the natural beauty of Lake Houston and its surrounding areas. Each year, Roger helps organize teams of dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to remove trash and debris from shorelines and waterways. From discarded plastics to larger items like tires and old furniture, the impact of Trash Bash is both visible and profound. Beyond cleaning up the environment, the event fosters a sense of community and raises awareness about the importance of protecting local ecosystems. Roger believes in the power of education to inspire change, sharing that “Trash Bash is about more than picking up litter—it’s about building a culture of care and responsibility for our environment.” Through this initiative, Roger and his team are ensuring that Lake Houston remains a vibrant and beautiful space for future generations.
Supporting Local Families in Need
Huffman Food Pantry
The Huffman Food Pantry is a vital resource for the community, providing much-needed support to families and individuals facing food insecurity. Dedicated to ensuring no one in the Huffman area goes hungry, the food pantry operates through the generosity of volunteers, donations, and local partnerships. By distributing essential groceries, fresh produce, and pantry staples, the organization helps alleviate the burden of hunger while fostering a spirit of care and community. The Huffman Food Pantry is more than just a place for assistance—it’s a beacon of hope and a reminder of the power of neighbors helping neighbors.
How You Can Help
Texas Adaptive Aquatics (T.A.A.) relies on the generosity of donors and sponsors to keep its programs free and accessible for individuals with disabilities.
This year, T.A.A. is facing an urgent challenge following Hurricane Beryl, which caused significant setbacks, including the breakdown of their boat engine—a vital piece of equipment for their adaptive water sports. To continue serving the disabled community, T.A.A. needs to raise funds to replace the engine by December 3, 2024. Your donation can help ensure that participants can return to the water and experience the joy of these life-changing programs. Visit their Facebook page or website to learn more about their work, view updates, and donate directly to support their mission. Together, we can help T.A.A. continue making a difference.
