Bikepacking Roots is expanding and diversifying their Board of Directors and are welcoming applications from individuals looking to be a positive influence for and within the bikepacking community. The Board of Directors is made up of passionate volunteers who act as representatives of the organization and as advocates for the bikepacking community, the experiences we collectively seek, and the landscapes through which we ride.
Who is Bikepacking Roots? They are the only non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing bikepacking, growing a diverse bikepacking community, and creating professional routes. They also advocate for the conservation of the landscapes and public lands through which we ride and for continued access to backcountry trails. The organization values human-powered adventure and an inclusive, engaged, and informed membership, now nearly 6,000 strong, that makes a positive impact as we all explore by bike. In the past year, Bikepacking Roots has created the Bears Ears Loops and the Northwoods Route, the BIPOC Bike Adventure Grant, developed a bikepacking curriculum for the National Interscholastic Cycling Association, and has been involved in advocacy efforts all across the West.
"Our Board is instrumental in helping chart the direction of this community-driven non-profit," explains Executive Director Kurt Refsnider. "The Board also makes sure that we're as efficient as possible with our budget in order to maximize our impact."
Bikepacking Roots is striving for the composition of its Board of Directors to reflect an increasingly diverse and inclusive bikepacking community. In particular, they are seeking applicants who represent non-dominant identities as BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and/or FTW (femme, transgender, women). Individuals of all ages, identities, abilities, and sizes are encouraged to apply. Board members do not need to be bikepackers but preferably can contribute expertise, guidance, and dedication in areas that strengthen Bikepacking Roots' ability and capacity to pursue their mission. These skill areas could include (in no particular order)
Fundraising and development
Cultivating an inclusive, diverse, and equitable outdoor recreation community
Public relations/marketing and communications
Mountain bike, public lands, and/or conservation advocacy
Recreation and route infrastructure development
The Board is responsible for overseeing the fulfillment of the organization's mission, strategic planning, financial oversight, and contributing to organizational growth through dedicated committee work and fundraising. And the organization is looking for ~6 new members as they expand and diversify the group.
To learn more about this opportunity and to apply, please visit bikepackingroots.org/joinourboard.html Bikepacking Roots will begin reviewing applications on September 14th.
