The American Canoe Association is thrilled to recognize Melissa DeMarie as our Instructor of the Month for June 2025! A passionate whitewater paddler, instructor, and community builder, Melissa has dedicated her career to helping others find strength, connection, and confidence through paddling.
A Life on the Water
Melissa’s journey began in 2005 on the rivers of California, where she took her first paddle strokes during raft guide training. From that very first moment, paddling became more than a hobby—it became her career and calling. Since then, she has worked her way around the globe as a raft guide, safety kayaker, instructor, and river photographer, with experience in New Zealand, Uganda, Costa Rica, Norway, Panama, Chile, and Nepal.
Now based on the South Fork of the American River in Lotus, California, Melissa teaches whitewater kayaking both at home and across the Western U.S., as well as internationally in Chile, Italy, and Norway.
Creating Space for Courage and Connection
One of the most defining moments in Melissa’s instructional career happened in 2015, during the first-ever California Watersport Collective (Cali Collective) Women’s Whitewater Kayaking Clinic. “Fifty women—from first strokes to fellow coaches—found courage, stoke, and sisterhood on the river,” Melissa recalls. “Their energy became the spark for something bigger.”
That clinic marked the beginning of Cali Collective, a mission-driven paddlesports school focused on creating safe, inclusive spaces for all people to learn, connect, and grow. In 2025, Melissa celebrates 10 years of Cali Collective and 20 years in the whitewater industry—a major milestone that speaks to her enduring commitment to community and empowerment on the river.
Paddling with Purpose
As the founder of California Watersport Collective and the new nonprofit organization Riverbound, Melissa continues to break down barriers and expand access to paddlesports. Riverbound was born from her desire to support underrepresented and marginalized communities in paddling through educational opportunities, mentorship, and outreach.
To mark Cali Collective’s 10th anniversary and build support for Riverbound, Melissa is hosting the first annual Riverbound Fundraising Celebration. The event features a full day of whitewater clinics followed by an evening of live music, a silent auction, raffle prizes, and community celebration—all with 100% of proceeds going directly to Riverbound.
📅 Event details and registration:
👉 riverboundoutreach.org/upcoming-events
Looking Ahead
Melissa’s passion, leadership, and drive to create inclusive paddling spaces embody the ACA’s mission and spirit. As she continues to grow Riverbound and inspire paddlers of all backgrounds, she reminds us all that paddling isn’t just a sport—it’s a powerful way to build confidence, foster community, and change lives.
Thank you, Melissa, for everything you do to move paddling—and people—forward. Congratulations on being our June Instructor of the Month!