Webinar Replay: Community Organizations – The Foundation of a Stronger Paddlesports Industry
Recorded April 8, 2026
Community organizations are where paddlesports begin for many participants. They introduce newcomers to the water, create welcoming local communities, advocate for access, promote stewardship, and help paddlers build the confidence that leads to lifelong participation.
In this fourth installment of the Paddlesports Trade Coalition's Best Practices Webinar Series, industry leaders explore the unique role community organizations play in growing participation and strengthening the entire paddlesports ecosystem. The webinar introduces a new set of Community Organization Gold Standards and a practical self-assessment tool designed to help organizations identify strengths, prioritize improvements, and build stronger partnerships with retailers, manufacturers, outfitters, instructors, and other industry stakeholders.
What You'll Learn
- Why community organizations are essential to recruiting, engaging, and retaining paddlers
- How local clubs, nonprofits, conservation groups, and volunteer organizations strengthen paddling communities
- Best practices for creating welcoming, inclusive, and accessible programs
- The importance of advocacy, stewardship, and protecting access to waterways
- How collaboration between community organizations, retailers, brands, sales representatives, and instructors benefits the entire paddlesports ecosystem
- How to use the Community Organization Self-Assessment Tool to identify priorities and guide continuous improvement
- Practical ideas for building stronger partnerships that support long-term participation and sustainable industry growth
Whether you're leading a local paddling club, supporting conservation efforts, operating a retail shop, or representing a paddlesports brand, this webinar offers practical strategies for building stronger partnerships that help more people discover paddling, develop confidence, and remain engaged for years to come.
Who Should Watch
- Community Organizations and Paddle Clubs
- Nonprofits and Conservation Groups
- Water Trail Organizations
- Parks and Recreation Professionals
- Retailers and Outfitters
- Manufacturers and Brands
- Sales Representatives
- Instructors and Trip Leaders
- State and Local Agencies
- Anyone interested in growing paddlesports participation
Featuring
- Pamela Dillon – PTC Staff (Host)
- Stig Larsson – Chairperson, Paddlesports Trade Coalition
- Patrick Quinney – Chair, PTC Best Practices Committee & Level Six
- Jason Eccles – PTC Board Member & Bending Branches & Aqua Bound
- Andrea White – Cross Currents Leadership
- Derry Walsh – Florida Paddling Trails Association
- Brian Boyea – Bending Branches & Aqua Bound
- Rob Bossenazen – PTC Board Member & Blue Water Trading
- Tony Narcisse – Paddle for Tomorrow