United We Row Celebrates One-Year Anniversary

United We Row, USRowing’s initiative dedicated to diversifying and growing the sport of rowing, is proud to celebrate our one-year anniversary. In our first year of inception, United We Row won the USOPC DE&I Choice Award for our grants program, the fourth time USRowing has received the honor. 

While USRowing has long been committed to building a welcoming and inclusive rowing community, United We Row gave our work a name, a brand, and a guiding principle: “A seat in the boat for everyone.” Over the past year, this initiative has made a significant impact in the rowing community, providing grants to 9 programs and $200,000 in scholarships to athletes, $20,000 to coaches, and $55,000 in membership dues. United We Row has played a vital role in expanding the organization’s reach and providing resources to the community, including grants for transportation, outreach, and equipment.

"At its heart, United We Row is driven by what makes rowing truly special – the power of pulling together” said Jennie Trayes, Chief Community Engagement Officer. “It’s about every one of us in the rowing community playing a part to grow our sport and support each other. Whether it's mentoring to a novice, sharing our love for rowing with a stranger, cheering on Team USA, or greeting a teammate as we walk into the boathouse – it all adds up to a better experience for all.”

In the past year, United We Row has accomplished:

• Grants – Elevating great work in the rowing community among a diverse representation of organizations, we've provided $70,000 to clubs that are increasing representation in rowing. ​ 
• Scholarships – To better ensure equitable access to camps, United We Row provided $200,000 to athletes at all of USRowing’s Olympic and Paralympic Development Camps and Selection Camps and to coaches for continuing education such as conferences, clinics, USRowing certifications, and ride-along. 
• Inaugural United We Row Summit – This event brought together hundreds of rowing leaders, coaches, and community members over two days to share stories, network, and learn practical strategies for fostering inclusion and accessibility within rowing programs.  
• Education- Through The Launch, USRowing’s online learning platform, we have provided multiple courses on best practices to open boathouse doors with courses such as "Nine Things to Know about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at USRowing,” “Opening the Boathouse Doors,” and “Training for Inclusive Camps”.

If your club or program is interested in applying for a 2025 grant, applications will be opened in April 2025. Athletes and coaches are encouraged to apply for scholarships for USRowing camps and conferences. 

For more information about United We Row and its initiatives, please visit our website or watch the video about our 2024 grantee below.