Chicago Adventure Therapy (CAT) creates opportunity in the outdoor world and works to build more equitable green and blue spaces. A group of young paddlers from CAT, the majority of them people of color, has addressed the questions of how to effectively and respectfully engage communities that are under-represented in paddling - especially black, indigenous, and other people of color, young people, and the LGBTQ+ community. CAT works on an individual, group, and systems level to effect personal growth through adventure therapy interventions and leadership development, and to create industry wide change. Our hope is that the next generation can explore and experience the outdoors and participate in paddlesports without discrimination, fear, or limited access. Join us to hear some practical lessons we've learned in 15 years creating a young, diverse Paddling Community.