The staff and I have loved working on the first ACA Story Project. We have truly enjoyed reading all the stories — stories which evoked a range of emotions: chuckles, cold chills, tears, and more than one “wow, look at that picture.” The variety of locations, experience levels, and paddle craft demonstrates the breadth of our sport and the fact that it really is a “sport for life.” The common threads among the stories, such as freedom of being on the water, the confidence gained from mastering paddling techniques, the joy of mentoring others, and the importance of knowing how to be safe on the water, validate the ACA’s mission. Paddling has changed so many lives in so many wonderful ways.
Many thanks to all our storytellers who took the time to share their experiences with us — what a gift! Many thanks to our donors whose generosity will support our efforts to make the world a safer, more fun place to paddle. And a shout out to all our volunteers who, for 145 years, have been the engine that powers the ACA. We can’t make it happen without you.
We appreciate the support for our first Story Project and hope to see you in Charlotte for ACA PaddleFest in October to celebrate our 145th anniversary and to help shape ACA’s future.
Beth Spilman
ACA Executive Director
