Introducing individuals to a river experience is often eye opening. Encouraging them to return for a second or third time and further, to embrace the river experience as a pastime or passion is a process! 

Learn about the ambitious, nationwide program that encourages urban partners to offer both sampling experiences and follow up opportunities that nurture potential lifetime stewards. We’ll then dive into a story of conversion with a city-centric organization that is growing enthusiasts by promoting paddling as "therapy" and a nexus of fun and family.

Lesford Duncan, MPH, Executive Director of the Outdoor Foundation, is a collaborative leader in outdoor equity and youth development who has leveraged philanthropy, public leadership, and programmatic best practices to promote the resilience and well-being of children, families, and communities. Previously, he served as CEO of Greening Youth Foundation, Associate Executive Director at Outdoor Outreach, and in senior leadership roles in health and human services agencies. Lesford holds a BS in Biology from the University of Florida, MPH in Health Policy and Leadership from Loma Linda University, and is a Senior Atlantic Fellow for Health Equity.

Zorbari Nwidor is the Executive Director of Chicago Adventure Therapy (CAT), where she brings over 15 years of dedication to the organization and the outdoor adventure community. Her journey with CAT began in 2009 as a youth participant, and she has since risen to lead the organization, shaping transformative outdoor experiences for young people across Chicago.  Zorbari is deeply passionate about promoting equity, justice, and access for marginalized communities. She is dedicating her career to creating a world where every young person, regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic status, can experience the transformative power of adventure and outdoor sports. Her leadership at CAT exemplifies her belief in the power of outdoor experiences to inspire personal growth and social change. 

Registration

On the second Tuesday of the month, the River Management Society hosts River Management Roundtables (facilitated virtual discussions) with professional river, greenway, and water trails leaders, planners, and managers who will benefit from peer-to-peer sharing. Our goal is to facilitate an open forum in which you can ask questions, share solutions and build comradery. There's no fee or membership requirement to attend, but registration is required to help us set expectations and improve our outreach. We will record the discussion and send it out to registrants within the week.

Watch the Recording