At the heart of the ACA is a dedicated group of volunteers. From shaping organizational strategy to ensuring instructional curriculum remains current and relevant, creating standards for team selection within competitive disciplines, and building community at the local level, volunteers are involved in everything we do.
This Volunteer Appreciation Week, we are proud to recognize four key groups whose leadership and service drive the ACA forward: the Board of Directors, the Safety Education & Instruction Council (SEIC), the Competition Council, and the Regional Activity Council (RAC).
Together, these volunteers help to ensure that paddlers across the country have access to safe, meaningful, and rewarding experiences on the water.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors provides strategic direction for the organization, oversees critical policy decisions, and ensures financial oversight.
“We are very grateful for the commitment of our Board of Directors and the countless hours they devote to the ACA,” says Executive Director Beth Spilman. “Many of our directors have served multiple terms and their contributions to our success are greatly appreciated.”
The Board’s Nominating Committee will soon be accepting nominations for two At-Large and one Independent Director positions. Members may also serve on Board committees even if they are not on the Board of Directors. If you are interested guiding the ACA, keep an eye out for a forthcoming announcement soliciting nominations for the Board!
Competition Council
The Competition Council helps shape and strengthen paddlesports competition across all 15 ACA disciplines by supporting athletes, event organizers, and clear standards, including team selection procedures. These volunteers work closely with coaches, clubs, and committees to ensure fair, consistent competition nationwide. They also stay closely connected to athletes across the country, helping carry the ACA’s mission from local events to national events.
Community Engagement Manager MacKenzie Holbrook thanks all Competition Committee volunteers, officials, coaches, athletes, and leaders who give their time and energy to support ACA competition. “Your involvement and commitment help strengthen paddlesports competition from local events to the national stage. We truly appreciate the important role you play in supporting the ACA across all of our paddlesport disciplines.”
Regional Activity Council (RAC)
The Regional Activity Council (RAC) represents ACA members through a strong network of very dedicated volunteers, including Regional Chairs, State Directors, State Councils, and Paddle America Clubs. The RAC is currently preparing for Kayaking 101 events in eight states to kick off National Safe Boating Week. Chief Operating Officer Krista Lenzmeier reflects that she is, “incredibly grateful for their hard work and look forward to seeing it come to life on the water.” To get involved in the RAC please visit the ACA website and contact your Regional Chair or State Director
Safety, Education, and Instruction Council (SEIC)
The SEIC is the volunteer heart of ACA’s safety and instructional work, bringing together experienced leaders and subject matter experts from across disciplines to help shape the standards, resources, and educational pathways that support paddlers, instructors, and the broader community. SEIC helps make sure ACA’s instructional programs remain credible, relevant, thoughtful, and rooted in real-world paddling practice.
To the SEIC, Education, Insurance and Membership Director Kelsey Bracewell shares the following words of thanks.
“I want to extend my sincere gratitude for all that you do in service to the SEIC and the ACA community. Your time, insight, and commitment mean so much, and I do not take for granted the care and thoughtfulness you bring into the ACA atmosphere.
It is truly a pleasure to work for this remarkable group of volunteers. The depth of knowledge, experience, and dedication represented across the Board and committees is extraordinary, and I feel fortunate every day to support each and every person involved with the SEIC. Over time, many of you have helped shape my own career in meaningful ways. Through your leadership, your example, your feedback, and your high standards, you have challenged me to bring my very best, and I wouldn’t be the same without you.
Each of you plays an important role in strengthening ACA’s instructional programs through your expertise, thoughtful discussion, and willingness to serve. So much of what you do happens quietly and behind the scenes, but it has a real and lasting impact. Your efforts help move important work forward and support the instructors, leaders, and paddlers who rely on these programs every day.
One of the greatest joys of my work is getting to see and hear about the successful courses, trips, and learning experiences that grow from the foundation you help create. It is incredibly rewarding to witness the ways your service ripples outward through the paddlesports community, supporting quality instruction, stronger leaders, and meaningful experiences on the water.
Thank you for continuing to share your time, wisdom, and talents so generously. Your service matters deeply, and it is a true privilege to work in support of people who care so much, give so much, and continue to inspire me through both their leadership and their example.”
If you are interested in getting involved with the SEIC, nominations and elections are held in the fall of odd numbered years; any current ACA and SEIC member holding an active ACA certification is welcome to nominate to serve this incredibly dynamic and impactful group.
Thank You, Volunteers
Across every pillar of the ACA, volunteers make it all possible. Their leadership, time, and enthusiasm for making the world a better place to paddle create opportunities and ensure that paddlesports continue to thrive. Check out the Volunteer Hub for more resources and opportunities to get involved!
“Thank you, volunteers!” — The ACA National Office Staff