Applications to both programs open to public now
RICHMOND, VA – Sports Backers is announcing the launch of the newly-created Ambassador Team as well as the re-launch of the Bike Walk RVA Academy, and the application period for both programs is now open through January 30 at www.sportsbackers.org.
“We are very excited about the creation of the new Sports Backers Ambassador Team and how it fits in with our mission to create and inspire an active community,” said Molly Johnson, the program coordinator for Sports Backers. “The Ambassador Team is a great opportunity to engage with Richmonders who want to spread the message about the benefits of an active lifestyle and help motivate and inspire others.”
The Ambassadors will work locally and regionally to help share information about Sports Backers’ events and programs, as well as the overall mission of the organization, which is to transform greater Richmond into the most physically active community in the nation by leading the area in embracing and celebrating an active lifestyle.
Sports Backers’ Ambassador Team is a year-long commitment starting in March 2015 and running through February 2016. Members of the Ambassador Team will hit the ground running to help get the word out about Sports Backers events and programs, primarily by attending events and expos in the Richmond area and throughout the mid-Atlantic region. In return, members can enjoy a variety of perks for their hard work, including exclusive Ambassador Team gear, Sports Backers’ event gear, and Ambassador Team recognition on Sports Backers’ website.
At the same time Sports Backers is also re-launching the Bike Walk RVA Academy in response to unprecedented demand for the first round of the program, which wrapped up in December 2014. The Bike Walk RVA Academy is an eight-week program designed to develop passionate advocates in Richmond into on-the-ground leaders in the movement for comfortable and connected walking and biking infrastructure. Participants will be empowered with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to effectively advocate for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure projects in their neighborhoods that allow everybody to get where they need to go on foot or by bike.
“The Autumn 2014 program received 65 applications for 20 available spots,” said Max Hepp-Buchanan, Director of Bike Walk RVA. “We couldn’t possibly accept everyone we wanted in the first round of the program, so we’ve decided to expedite the re-launch of the Bike Walk RVA Academy in Richmond. We want to take this unique opportunity to develop as many effective advocates for walking and biking infrastructure in the city before moving the program into the surrounding counties this fall.”
“With the final draft of the City’s Bicycle Master Plan coming out soon, and now with talk of a bike share program in Richmond, we need strong voices in our communities making sure these new projects are designed with people age 8 to 80 in mind,” explained Hepp-Buchanan. “You shouldn’t have to be strong and fearless to ride a bike or walk to places you need to go on a regular basis.”
Beginning on February 25, 2015, the Bike Walk RVA Academy will meet once a week and wrap up by the end of April. People of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities are encouraged to apply.
Both the Ambassador Team and the Bike Walk RVA Academy are offered free of charge, but entry into each program is competitive. Applications for both programs are now being accepted through January 30. Full workshop schedules, more information, and the online applications can be found at www.sportsbackers.org.
