Venture Outdoors is excited to announce that they have been selected as a host location for the American Canoe Association’s (ACA) Leadership Exploration and Development Initiative (LEAD). In partnership with the ACA and The Power of Water paddle school, they’re offering 10 FREE spots in this special summer-long paddle training for BIPOC individuals who want to want to build a local BIPOC paddling community and learn new skills.
“This program is absolutely amazing…I have gathered the leadership skills that honestly make me feel like I could go out into my community and empower other people and get other people that look like me out on the water…”
-Adrienne Gallup
Adrienne’s words speak to overcoming barriers that persist in the outdoors for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. The ACA’s LEAD initiative was created to remove those barriers and foster the growth of a more inclusive and diverse paddling community. We’re excited to include this in our Venture Outdoors programming as it directly aligns with our mission to remove barriers and create equitable outdoor experiences.
“The ACA’s transformative program offers individuals from systemically marginalized communities a unique opportunity to enhance their leadership skills, build community, and make a lasting impact in their local communities through paddlesports.
By providing comprehensive training, ongoing mentorship, and fostering a sense of community, we aim to empower participants to become leaders and advocates for increased accessibility and participation in paddlesports. Join us on this journey of personal growth, community building, and positive change.
Together, let’s make waves in the paddling world.”
