REI and IMBA Renew Volunteer Stewardship Challenge and Grant Program
For Immediate Release
05-01-08
Contact: Mark Eller, Communications Director
markeller@imba.com
303-545-9011
In 2008, IMBA and REI will once again partner for the Volunteer Stewardship Challenge and offer a host of grants to support trail stewardship. The objective is to boost volunteerism in the mountain biking community and to measure volunteer involvement. Our goal in 2007 was to involve 40,000 volunteers in 600,000 hours of service. Online surveys by IMBA affiliates recorded an impressive 40,600 individual volunteers recording 450,000 hours of service (Jan. through Sept.). In dollar terms, the total donation of volunteers service equates to an $8.1 million gift to public lands.
Building on these goals, IMBA and REI are targeting 650,000 volunteer hours in 2008. The program also targets an increase in youth participation. REI funds will support the volunteer efforts of 600+ IMBA-affiliated clubs, helping increase capacity, provide training and track volunteer projects. "REI's partnership with IMBA has been critical to developing the capacity of our affiliated clubs. Quantifying volunteer hours and club's trail stewardship efforts has enabled us to speak more effectively with land managers at the state, local and national level." said Ryan Schutz IMBA Affiliate Program Manager. Multiple volunteer cultivation events will be conducted at REI stores nationwide.
REI's contribution also funds a grant program to support volunteer trailwork. Participating IMBA clubs will be eligible to receive IMBA/REI Volunteer Stewardship Toolkits and trailhead signs valued at approximately $200 per kit. Clubs may also apply for IMBA REI cash grants to fund volunteer development projects that are aligned with the goals of the program. For more information on IMBA REI grants contact Ryan Schutz, ryan.schultz@imba.com.
Visit the REI/IMBA Volunteers Stewardship Challenge online resources for great materials for organizing volunteer events and recording volunteer hours.
