Community Paddles Kick-Off: A Beautiful Start to Summer Paddles
Thank you to everyone who joined us on June 26 at Riverside Park for the 2025 Community Paddles Kick-Off. It was a joy to see so many community members out at the park, connecting with the river and each other.
This event was also a special moment to honor Amanda Blevins and Erik Talley, who helped build our Recreation Program from the ground up. Through years of care, creativity, and leadership, Amanda and Erik made sure every walk, ride, and paddle along the Woonasquatucket was an experience to remember. We’re grateful for their impact and proud to carry their work forward.
Thank you to Representative David Morales for honoring both Amanda and Erik with State citations as well.
A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors who helped make the event possible and joined us in person: AARP Rhode Island, Washington Trust, REI Co-op, and Rhode Island Energy. Your support keeps this program going strong and helps us welcome even more people to the river.
Our free weekly Community Paddles continue every Thursday afternoon through the summer. Whether you’re brand new to paddling or have been coming for years, we’d love to see you on the water.
Come paddle with us.