Catalina Channel Swim for Mattaw Students

On September 26th, Huntington Beach swimmer Megan Russell is swimming the Catalina Channel in Southern California to raise funds for Mattaw’s high school, trade school, and university students.

Megan grew up swimming in Utah and began open-water swimming as a student at BYU–Hawaii on Oʻahu’s North Shore. Since moving to Huntington Beach, she has continued swimming, coaches the Greenbrook Gators, and is now preparing to take on the Catalina Channel as a way to raise support for a cause that has become deeply personal.

In November 2025, Megan traveled to Kenya with Somewhere Devine to assist with building a chicken coop at Mattaw Children’s Village. While there, she had the opportunity to meet the children personally and hear about their stories, hopes, and dreams. That experience strengthened her desire to support Mattaw students as they continue their education and prepare for adulthood.

Megan’s goal is to raise $25,000. All donations go directly toward Mattaw’s education fund and are not used for swim costs, travel, training, or personal expenses. The swim is simply a way to bring attention to Mattaw’s students and help raise support for their future.

Mattaw is currently raising funds to support 65 high school and college students as they continue their education and transition into adulthood. Mattaw walks alongside students to help them thrive as adults, become leaders, and build hopeful futures.

Support Megan’s goal and help Mattaw students finish well and pursue their dreams. If you are not able to donate at this time, sharing the fundraiser with your friends, family, or community is also a meaningful way to help.