River of Dreams is a 501

River of Dreams Mission Statement

To change the lives of people with disabilities and significant life challenges through the power of outdoor recreation.

River of Dreams Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that was formed in 1993 by Walter Switzer, a successful Arizona businessman interested in helping others. Originally it was formed to provide river rafting trips to people with disabilities and at-risk teens. The organization continues to sponsor these same activities, offering three river trips to young people and one river expedition for adults. In addition we now offer sled ice hockey, hand cycling, backpacking and other outdoor recreation. All of these services are provided by the City of Phoenix, Parks and Recreation Department.
River Rampage

River Rampage is an outdoor adventure program of the Phoenix Parks, Recreation and Library Department, Adaptive Recreation Services, for young people who face significant challenges. On each trip, half of the teen participants have significant disabilities such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, head injury, blindness, deafness, or Down syndrome. The remainder are at-risk youths, many from neighborhoods overrun with gang activity.

The wilderness is a great equalizer. An extended outdoor adventure such as a River Rampage trip provides a perfect setting for learning acceptance and cooperation. The lessons of life are intensified because of the challenge, the lack of outside influences, and the need for teamwork and trust. When a gang member helps feed a young man with cerebral palsy, he learns what it feels like to care and to be appreciated. In turn, the teen with the disability gains trust in others, and experiences an increased sense of confidence and the ability to succeed.

River Rampage trips have been offered each summer since 1994. Teens participate at no cost to their families. By volunteering hours of community service, participants earn a slot that propels them downriver. The staff works closely with youths before and after the trips to help place each teen in an area of interest that may lead to part-time employment.

An independent evaluation conducted by Professor Robert Stout of Arizona State University showed that at least seventy percent of the at-risk and disabled teens that participated together in River Rampage received measurable, lasting benefits from the experience. For many, increases in self-esteem and independence were dramatic. Their grades improved, they made more friends at school, and their outlook on the future improved.

Whether their challenge is a dysfunctional family, a significant disability, a life-threatening illness, or living in a gang-infested environment, all teenagers need a chance to see that the world is bigger than their neighborhoods, and that opportunities are available to them if they believe in themselves.