Hope Floats debuted in 2008, presenting the Grants Pass business community with a venue in which to give back what the region has so graciously given to its residents. The beautiful water of the Rogue River represents the flow of opportunity while the release of 75 Monarch butterflies symbolizes transformation and freedom. Combined with an intentional, mindful gathering for charitable giving, Hope Floats celebrates and rewards new beginnings. It is also a sustainable model for giving that others can follow.

The theme Water, Wine and Wishes sets the stage for a whimsical, fun-filled evening with fresh food and pairings from the Applegate vineyards and unique water pairings for those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks.  And everyone who participates is encouraged to wish …

Though 2008 was the inaugural first annual Hope Floats event, the Hamlyn family spent several years planning how they would give back to the Grants Pass community that they are so fond of.  In 2007, Robert and Travis Hamlyn decided the next best step was to choose a non-profit organization to be the first beneficiary of their efforts. Katie Hamlyn's work with non-profits brought their attention to Women’s Crisis Support Team (WCST ) who then became this recipient and will continue to recieve funding in 2009 through the Hope Floats event. In addition, the Hamlyn's and Home Valley Bank determined that Hope Floats would raise money for multiple non-profit organizations, to be determined by the board each year, providing a broader portioning of funds and offering help to multiple Josephine County organizations.

As the Hamlyn's and their event team gathered community sponsors and support, Home Valley Bank was quick to offer their support with the Hope Floats concept. In 2008 they began their community partnership with Hellgate Jetboat Excursions. This catapulted the event to a new level as organization partners they could do more and to do it better. Soon, the Board of Directors was established and everyone worked together in the refining efforts for the Hope Floats event which helped to guarantee its sustainability.

In early 2009, the Hellgate Jetboat Excursions and Home Valley Bank Community Foundation was formed and is currently awaiting its 501(3)C status.  This foundation will continue the Hope Floats philosophy and create additional charitable giving opportunities.