In Feb, 2022, TRR will host an OuttaSight training program in Key Largo.  This clinic is designed to introduce Veterans with visual impairment to coastal kayaking, as well as to train sighted, disabled Veterans as guides.  In addition to kayak instruction, the program will provide team building opportunities and exposure to leadership principles and practices to promote personal growth and healing. TRR receives some grant support for these clinics, which provides clinic instruction, gear rental and purchase, facility use, and other direct costs of training.  We are seeking sponsors for each of our eight visually-impaired Veterans and Veteran guides to cover the indirect costs of travel, lodging, and meals for this year’s program.

About the clinic

Team River Runner is the pioneer in developing guide training and paddler instruction for Veterans with visual impairment.  TRR’s OuttaSight program runs clinics that introduce visually-impaired Veterans to the independence and freedom provided through kayaking.  Utilizing well-trained and qualified guides, week-long progressive, intensive training programs enable Veterans who have never kayaked to become proficient in either flat-water, coastal, or basic whitewater kayaking skills.  Efforts are made to connect these Veterans to paddling resources in their community so that they can continue to experience the benefits of kayaking when they return home.

clinic needs

In Feb 2022, TRR will host an OuttaSight training program in Key Largo.  This clinic is designed to introduce Veterans with visual impairment to coastal kayaking, as well as to train sighted, disabled Veterans as guides.  In addition to kayak instruction, the program will provide team building opportunities and exposure to leadership principles and practices to promote personal growth and healing. TRR receives some grant support for these clinics, which provides clinic instruction, gear rental and purchase, facility use, and other direct costs of training.  We are seeking sponsors for each of our eight visually-impaired Veterans and Veteran guides to cover the indirect costs of travel, lodging, and meals for this year’s program.

DONATE HERE
" It’s more than just kayaking for me, it is an opportunity to meet and hang out with other visually impaired veterans like myself who have a sense of adventure."
Rick Cassidy
OuttaSight Paddler
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Thank You To Our Partners

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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.