Missouri River Relief

Dear Friends of the River,

As we approach the close of another remarkable year, I find myself filled with deep gratitude for you, for our team, and for the vibrant community that continues to carry the current of Missouri River Relief forward.

These are uncertain times; full of noise, worry, and change, and yet, year after year, our community proves that connection, compassion, and purpose still have a home here on the banks of the Missouri River. Together, we’ve not only weathered storms but turned them into opportunities for growth and hope.

This year, our work on the river has been a living reminder of what’s possible when people come together. Through our education programs, we’ve watched children discover the river for the first time, wide-eyed and curious as they turn learning into something that can be felt under their feet and held in their hands. Expanding our Missouri River Days into Jefferson City was a dream realized, connecting hundreds of students to the river that runs through their hometown and, perhaps, planting the first seeds of future river stewards.

Our stewardship work continued to bind us together in purpose. Each cleanup, each corporate day of service, each small act of care on the riverbank reflected the belief that our collective effort matters. Whether hauling debris from muddy shores or sharing laughter and stories over a shared meal at day’s end, our crew and volunteers showed what it means to protect what we love.

And through recreation, we’ve continued to celebrate the joy and challenge of the river. Events like the MR340 and Race to the Dome remind us that the river is not only a teacher but a companion, one that brings people together across miles and moments. The faces we see at the finish line, weary but transformed, embody the spirit that has always defined this organization: resilience, humility, and awe.

At Missouri River Relief, we are guided by the belief that when people connect with the river, they connect with each other. This connection fuels everything we do, it’s what keeps our boats running, our classrooms thriving, and our community strong.

If you are able, I invite you to make a year-end gift to Missouri River Relief. Every dollar carries forward the current of this work, connecting, inspiring, and empowering people to learn the river’s rhythms for generations to come.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Jami Wade
Executive Director
Missouri River Relief