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American Whitewater features TRR Asheville Chapter

“I believe there is a special camaraderie that exists among paddlers. When I am with my friends or even a stranger and we are kayaking alone in a gorge, deep in the woods on a cold winter day, I don’t think about work or the unfolded laundry. I simply enjoy the moment and focus on my environment and those around me. In 2011 I began driving from Birmingham, Alabama to parts of western North Carolina and northeastern Georgia almost every chance I got in order to kayak. Good fortune brought me the opportunity to kayak as a volunteer with members of the Asheville chapter of Team River Runner, or TRR.”

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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.