This is a multi-layered program where we can provide tools for a novice paddler to become a professional in the paddlesports industry and contribute to their local community as a leader and mentor to empower others.

Here is the full path an individual could take with support from Riverbound:

Step 1: Participation in a Community River Day - These trips are provided at no cost for participants to introduce them to the joys of recreating on the river. Activities during these trips can include but are not limited to water safety, communication and leadership skills and environmental awareness.

Step 2: Learn to Paddle - This program includes learning about equipment, paddling techniques, river safety and basic rescue, understanding hydrodynamics and decision making. During this time, the participant will have the opportunity join subsequent Community River Days as a volunteer.

Step 3: Internship - 3 Months, California - This program includes training and certifications paid for through Riverbound — Swiftwater Rescue, ACA Kayak Instructor Development, Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness First Aid and California Serv-Safe Food Handlers License. Once the participant has completed their certifications, they are eligible for a position at the California Watersport Collective (CWC) kayak school as an instructor trainee for the summer season. Other opportunities include safety kayaking, action photography, video editing and participation in local community outreach programs.

Step 4: Assistant Instructor - 2-4 Months - The participant will have the opportunity to work as an assistant for CWC's trips and clinics throughout the US and abroad. Here they can improve their skills as a guide and instructor, as well as gain more in-depth knowledge about logistical trip planning and group management. Other opportunities include photography and video production.

Step 5: Whitewater Kayak Instructor - 4-5 Months, California - Upon successful completion of both steps 3 and 4, the participant will be eligible to be offered a position as a full time kayak instructor with the CWC kayak school to continue to grow their skill and experience in this field.

Step 6: The Sky’s the Limit - This is where it gets exciting. With all of these certifications, training and real life work experience, participants in this program can gain the background necessary to gain employment in the United States and worldwide in the paddlesports industry and to provide support in their local communities. This could include working within existing community programs where Riverbound already provides support, or help initiate new community programs, such as a paddling club. Since 2017, CWC has provided similar programs like these for participants who have returned to their local communities continuing to empower others, encouraging participation in paddlesports and advocating for environmental stewardship. This program is designed to be sustainable and open up opportunities for a more diverse paddlesports community.

Most importantly, the way this program is structured, it is not limited to California but can be replicated or modified. By partnering with a kayak school that has a rich history of encouraging diversity and inclusion in paddlesport, as well as a robust offering of clinics, trips and community programs, the infrastructure is already in place. Within this solid framework, Riverbound is fully equipped to repeat this program over and over in different venues around the US and abroad.

The funding Riverbound receives will go to support travel expenses, kayaks and paddling equipment, work visas for international participants, food, accommodation, continued in-house training, vehicles and transportation costs.