In addition to his work helping bring hotel owners and management companies together, Jeff Rake raises money for a cause that is very important to him.
“As an alcoholic who was living a hopeless existence until after his 50th birthday, I now engage in open-water solo marathon swims,” he said. “I bring awareness to what’s possible in recovery in order to help others suffering from substance abuse disorder.”
He added, “I want to be the guy that totally supports recovery to show people what they can do, what possibilities are out there and how you can maximize your potential if you ask for help.”
In 2019, he placed second for men aged 50-plus in a 12 km swim across Lac Tremblant in Quebec, Canada. In 2020, he swam 12 miles around Coronado Island in San Diego Harbor, and last year, he made his first attempt to swim across the Catalina Channel in Southern California. While he was unsuccessful in his first attempt, he is scheduled to make his second attempt later this year.
Through these efforts, he has raised thousands of dollars to help others discover a life of sobriety through The Herren Project, a national nonprofit organization founded by former professional basketball player Chris Herren, which provides free resources and support for the treatment, recovery and prevention of substance use disorder.
“This has become my way of making an impact and expressing my gratitude,” said Rake.
To support Rake and his cause, visit his website, iswim4.com
