At Animas River Surfers, we believe that the future of river sports lies in the hands of the next generation. Engaging youth in river activities is not just a priority for us—it’s a core goal that shapes everything we do. By fostering a love for the river and its sports among young people, we aim to cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors, encourage healthy lifestyles, and build a community of environmentally conscious individuals who will carry on the legacy of river stewardship.

Introducing River Sports to the Next Generation

We recognize that many young people may not have had the opportunity to experience the thrill of river surfing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. That’s why we are dedicated to making these activities accessible and inviting to youth from all backgrounds. Through partnerships with local schools, community centers, and youth organizations, we offer programs that introduce kids to the basics of river sports in a fun, safe, and supportive environment. Our goal is to break down barriers to entry and ensure that every child has the chance to discover the joys of the river.

Youth-Focused Programs and Events

To inspire the next generation of river enthusiasts, we organize a variety of youth-focused programs and events throughout the year. These include beginner river surfing clinics, safety workshops, and youth river sports camps that are designed to build skills, confidence, and a sense of community among participants. We also host youth competitions and fun events that celebrate the spirit of adventure and camaraderie in river sports. By providing these opportunities, we hope to spark a lifelong passion for the river in young people.

Mentorship and Leadership Development

Engaging youth in river sports goes beyond just teaching them how to surf or paddle—it’s also about developing leadership skills and fostering a sense of responsibility for the environment. Our mentorship programs pair experienced river surfers with young participants, offering guidance, support, and encouragement as they navigate their journey in river sports. These relationships help build confidence and resilience, while also instilling a strong ethic of river stewardship. We believe that today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders, and we are committed to helping them grow into knowledgeable and responsible guardians of our natural resources.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

A key aspect of our mission is to make river sports accessible to all youth, regardless of their economic background. We work to remove financial barriers by offering scholarships, providing free or low-cost equipment rentals, and hosting community events that are open to everyone. Inclusivity is at the heart of our efforts, as we strive to create a welcoming environment where all young people feel valued and supported. By ensuring that every child has access to river sports, we are investing in a diverse and vibrant future for the river community.

Building a Lifelong Connection to the River

Engaging youth in river sports is about more than just recreation—it’s about building a deep and lasting connection to the river and the natural world. We believe that when young people experience the beauty and excitement of the river, they develop a sense of respect and responsibility for its health and well-being. This connection not only benefits the individuals involved, but also contributes to the broader goals of environmental conservation and community building.

At Animas River Surfers, we are committed to creating opportunities for young people to explore, learn, and grow through river sports. By focusing on youth engagement, we are laying the foundation for a future where the river continues to be a source of joy, adventure, and inspiration for generations to come.