Jason is a 25-year Veteran of the US Army his passion for learning and teaching intersected with white water, Veteran On The River was formed. Jason became a certified guide in 2022 and continued to frequent the area ultimately partnering with Independent White Water. Jason is the primary facilitator of the soft-skills program within the program with certification and practical application in emotional intelligence, behavioral communication methods, conflict management, DEI, and when not teach this to DOD civilians or VOTR students also volunteer for several VBRGs in the Atlanta, GA area.

Hannah is an indigenous former student athlete with experience as a learning and development professional with a proven history of success in the human relations scope. Hannah's passions include personal development, human rights, and putting people first.

Braden is an indigenous former student athlete with experience as a marketing professional with history of success and growth within the B2B & SaaS scope. Braden's passions include environmental conservation, expressing creativity / self, and being impactful.

John is a middle school teacher at Salida Middle School and has been rafting since the age of 10. He has multiple certifications and credentials to include swift water rescue and is an expert on Brown’s Canyon, his home river. John’s skills have taken him around the globe to learn and concur some of the most challenging white waters. John also adjuncts and partners with universities as a leadership and outdoor instructor.

Is the advisor and partner to VOTR. Mike has co-owned and run Independent White Water with Wylie Ledwith since 1999 but the story of IW goes back over 43-years with it founder Mr. Bill Block (who we still see regularly). Mike has been a raft guide for over 30-years and still hops in the boat to teach often. He has ran a very family friendly laid-back business. Mike decided to support VTOR after Jas certified as a guide, having a real passion for Veterans, his Dad retiring after 22 years with the US Army.

Whitewater Rafting