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Opening the Hudson River to Everyone
We fund paddlesports and wilderness safety training scholarships for underserved communities—building a pipeline of diverse outdoor leaders.
Launching 2026
Scholarships Funded
25–30
Target Year 1 Impact
3 Programs
Access + Safety + Leadership
Everyone Belongs on the Water
We remove financial barriers to paddling instruction, wilderness first aid/responder training, and instructor certification by funding direct scholarships through established outfitters and training providers. No boats to buy. No facilities to maintain. Just access, skills, and leadership.
How It Works
1
We Raise Funds
From donors, sponsors, and grants dedicated to breaking down barriers to outdoor access.
2
People Apply
Individuals and groups from underserved communities apply for scholarships based on need and commitment.
3
We Fund Participation
Scholarship recipients join programs with trusted partner outfitters and training providers.
Who We Serve
Scout troop leaders
Youth program staff
Aspiring instructors from underrepresented communities
Veterans groups
Rehab program participants
Environmental justice organizations
Why It Matters
Outdoor recreation and leadership remain overwhelmingly white and affluent. Cost is a barrier. We connect people to their local waterways—creating lifelong stewards, instructors, and community leaders.
Pipeline of Impact
EntrySkill BuildingSafety TrainingInstructor CertificationLeadership & Stewardship
Our Scholarship Programs
Wilderness Safety Training
WFA/WFR certification scholarships to build safety capacity in outdoor leaders.
Coming SoonACA Instructor Certification
Supporting diverse aspiring instructors to join the professional paddling community.
Coming SoonPaddling Programs
Intro classes, clinics, tours, and multi-session progressions for beginners.
Coming Soon