The mission of POWR (Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers) involves supporting paddling events that promote river conservation and engagement through enhancing public access to waterways. Supported by the PA Department of Conservation of Natural Resources and the American Canoe Association, POWR focuses on fostering community involvement in river stewardship and paddling activities.
The Pennsylvania River Sojourn Mini-Grant Program funds single and multi-day guided paddling trips on Pennsylvania's rivers. Grants are competitive and vary in amount, with up to $1,000 available per on-water day for multi-day events and $500 for single-day events. This program prioritizes proposals that introduce innovative, inclusive approaches to engage new, diverse, and young paddlers. Annually, the program facilitates the participation of over 4,000 people, covering more than 500 river miles, and offers upwards of 100 educational programs targeting river conservation and paddling skills.