A Paddle To Remember Recap

Team River Runner serves veterans of all eras and these veterans seek out TRR for many reasons. Some pick up a paddle to re-live the rush of adrenaline they felt in the service. Some come to us to rehab injuries or get back in shape. Many of our veterans share one specific reason for seeking us out, the camaraderie they miss from their time in the military and as a place of healing for the memory of their peers that did not come home. Healing these wounds is a huge part of our program and that’s why we decided to hold a “Paddle to Remember.” 

Memorial Day is a time to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice made by men and women in service to our country. To honor this sacrifice, TRR Chapters all over the country came together the weekend before Memorial day on the water to paddle. 

Every Day. Every Paddlestroke. We Remember. 

We wanted to share photos from this special event with our community of supporters. 

Team River Runner Lexington, KY

Team River Runner Northeast Ohio

Team River Runner Lehigh Valley

 

Vanessa Jones

Committe Co-Chair

Vanessa A. Jones is a dynamic force dedicated to fostering
inclusivity, encouraging discussion, and promoting a culture of
belonging in the outdoor sports community. Hailing from
Washington, DC, she brings a wealth of diverse experiences and
perspectives to her endeavors.
As a US Army veteran and ordained Chaplain with a focus on
seniors and caretakers, Vanessa is deeply committed to serving
others. Her work as a patient-caretaker advocate reflects her
passion for supporting vulnerable populations and ensuring their
voices are heard.
Currently, Vanessa is employed by a resettlement agency, where
she confronts challenges head-on with resilience and
compassion. As a single, Black woman veteran, she embraces
the unique hurdles she faces, viewing them as opportunities for
growth and empowerment.
In her downtime, she wears many hats, including that of a
missionary, spreading hope and positivity wherever she goes.
Weekends are spent paddling, immersing herself in West African
dance and finding solace and joy in nature’s embrace.
Vanessa is committed to equitable principles, ensuring that
everyone’s opinions are valued and heard. Through her
unwavering dedication and inclusive leadership, Vanessa is
paving the way for a more equitable and diverse outdoor sports
landscape.