IMBA renews volunteer stewardship program

IMBA and REI renewed their partnership supporting the Volunteer Stewardship Challenge which aims to boost volunteerism in the mountain bike community through various grants.

In 2007, the program exceeded its goals by recording 450,000 hours of service by 40,600 volunteers during the first nine months of the year. In dollar terms, the total donation is equivalent to a US$8.1 million gift to public lands. Stepping up the goals for 2008, the partnership is aiming for 650,000 volunteer hours including increased youth participation. REI stores across the US will be used to help recruit additional volunteers.

"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.

IMBA clubs may apply for Volunteer Stewardship Toolkits and trailhead signs valued at approximately US$200 per kit or for cash grants to fund volunteer development projects. For more information, contact Ryan Schutz at ryan.schultz@imba.com.