Mighty Mayo River Trip raises 1,400 pounds of food for local food bank
STONEVILLE, NC – More than 65 river paddlers from across North Carolina gathered in Stoneville Memorial Park on Saturday to kickoff the annual Mighty Mayo River Trip.
With brightly colored boats strapped on vehicles and trunk-loads of food to donate, these whitewater boaters came to have fun and to assist in the fight against hunger in Rockingham County.
Now in its 8th year as a community service-focused river outing, the Mighty Mayo River Trip (MMRT) brings together river enthusiasts to paddle the pristine Class II – III rapids of the upper Mayo River and give back to the local community at the same time.
The food was loaded into a box truck and delivered to Lot 2540 in Mayodan. Lot 2540 aims to empower the individuals it serves so they can lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.
MMRT participants also picked up trash from the riverbank during an after-paddle litter clean-up effort.
“Many river paddlers enjoy the sense of community that develops among those who share a passion for paddling,” said Joe Berry, a Carolina Canoe Club boater and MMRT founder and organizer. “Giving back to the local communities can help build connections and foster positive relationships between paddlers and the communities where they go to recreate.”
Kathy Galvan, Stoneville Mayor, welcomed the paddlers on behalf of the town. “This was my 3rd year to welcome MMRT to Stoneville, and it was the best year yet,” said Mayor Galvan. “The energy of boaters and how they want to give back to the river communities is just incredible.”
Brian Williams and Anna Wheeler, both with the Dan River Association, and Steven Pulliam, the Dan Riverkeeper, thanked the paddlers for their spirit of service.
“Paddlers are invaluable stewards of our rivers, using the resource with wisdom and care while also actively giving back to the community,” said Wheeler. “We are grateful for their dedication to preserving the beauty and health of these local waterways.”
Williams and Wheeler joined the boaters on the trip.
“As a riverkeeper, I can tell you that river paddlers are the river’s best ambassadors,” said Pulliam. “They know the rivers as well or better than anyone else and spend a lot of their time sharing that love with others.”
Lindsay Pegg, Rockingham County Tourism Manager, brought Rockingham County Blueway Maps and shared information on numerous upcoming events throughout the county as part of NC Year of the Trail. “Rockingham County offers more than 60 miles of rivers,” said Pegg. “We’re fortunate to have a diverse range of water-based recreational opportunities for all ages and skill levels, from tranquil family float trips to experienced whitewater paddlers. We’re celebrating the NC Year of Trail and that includes these beautiful blueways.”
Professional photographer, Gordon Allen, volunteered his skills to document the event.
For more information, about MMRT, please contact Joe Berry at jmbbmj@bellsouth.net
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