The Pam & George Wendt Foundation

The Pam & George Wendt Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 2009 and is based in Angels Camp, California. Its primary mission is to provide meaningful guided river rafting and outdoor adventure experiences for under-resourced youth and young adults. The foundation aims to enhance access to outdoor activities, promoting personal development and fostering a connection to nature among participants.

Programs and Initiatives

One of the notable programs offered by the foundation is the Pam & George Wendt Guide School Scholarship, which was launched in collaboration with OARS (Outdoor Adventure River Specialists). This scholarship is designed to assist individuals with limited financial resources in attending OARS’s whitewater guide training programs. The initiative not only broadens access to professional training in the outdoor industry but also encourages diversity, as preference is given to applicants from underrepresented groups, including BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals.

The guide school program teaches essential skills for whitewater guiding, such as water reading, boat rigging, and safety protocols. Participants also learn leadership, teamwork, and environmental stewardship principles. Scholarships cover tuition and provide additional support, such as travel stipends and gear vouchers for successful recipients.

Impact and Goals

The foundation seeks to increase opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing careers as river guides, thereby contributing to the sustainability of outdoor adventure sectors. By removing financial barriers to training and education, The Pam & George Wendt Foundation strives to create a more inclusive environment within the outdoor recreation community.

Through its initiatives, the foundation not only impacts the lives of individuals but also aims to cultivate a greater appreciation for nature and the outdoors, instilling values of responsibility and conservation among the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.