Team River Runner's Mission

To provide all active duty, veterans and their families an opportunity to find health, healing, community purpose, and new challenges through adventure and adaptive paddle sports!

OUR VALUES

Lifestyle

We believe that health and healing is achieved by regularly participating in programs that are fun and active. Our paddling opportunities include sea kayaking, flatwater paddling, stand up paddle boarding, whitewater paddling, and rafting throughout the year.

Inclusiveness

We Believe that like military service, programs should be inclusive. TRR programs serve veterans of all eras, active duty service members, and their families. TRR also welcomes all individuals to help us meet our mission.

Purpose

We believe purpose can be found by helping others in need which TRR encourages.

Generosity

We believe healing occurs by giving back to others. Chapters are encouraged to connect with local community organizations to help when possible.

Our Vision

TRR envisions a growing national chapter network that creates innovative paddling programs designed to offer all service members and their communities enriching experiences. Whether looking for adventure, healing, or purpose, TRR seeks to be an inclusive lifestyle program for all!

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.