On September 10, 2012 the Pioneer Valley Riverfront Club (PVRC) launched it’s first youth program from the historic Rockrimmon boathouse at North Riverfront Park in the North End of Springfield. With the mission to promote river-based activities, develop river access, and encourage recreation in the Greater Springfield metropolitan area, PVRC is poised to put the vision into action.

PVRC believes that everyone should have the opportunity to safely explore the river and bike path while seeking to lead a healthy lifestyle. Newly located within easy walking and biking distance of downtown Springfield, PVRC will serve as a point of access to the river for human powered boats and encourage the healthy use of the Connecticut River Walk & Bikeway.

This winter, PVRC strives to create a safe, usable and inviting recreational facility for the community. With excitement, we've moved to a location with deep connections to the history of rowing and the city of Springfield. Although, many updates and repairs are needed to transform the boathouse and surrounding grounds into a healthy, safe and welcoming destination. Your donation will go a long way in helping PVRC fulfill its goal of providing convenient access to healthy choices on the river and bikepath.

For the past five years, PVRC has offered programming with a focus on physical fitness, education and stewardship of the Connecticut River. With updates to the facility and grounds, we strive to significantly expand recreational opportunities for the Greater Springfield metropolitan area: canoeing and kayaking, bike rental, Riverwalk events, indoor fitness, dragon boating and rowing programs. PVRC also plans to continue it's work with local organizations to offer unique opportunities such as our young parent rowing team, youth leadership training, water safety, and community engagement. Your donation is very appreciated. Thank you for your support of our unique programs.

PVRC is already making a difference:

"I want to thank you so much for having me on the team. I appreciate every minute spent rowing. It is something different for me. It has changed my life in many ways and I feel like my life is only going to get better." - Young mother on the competitive youth rowing team (introduced to the sport through PVRC's summer program for teen mothers pursuing their GED).

"When you are out on the water with a group of kids, all of the things that separate you disappear.
You are all working towards the common goal of moving the boat across the water as fast as possible and everyone wants to do their best ... that is something that makes rowing so special" - Youth Rower