Sovereign Waters is an ACA-affiliated paddling initiative based in North Minneapolis that exists to create welcoming pathways into the water.

For many in our community, waterways have not always felt like places of comfort or belonging. Through trusted partnerships and progressive learning environments, we invite individuals and families to begin where they feel safe — building confidence in the pool before moving to lakes and eventually the Mississippi River.

This work is rooted in access, safety, and representation, creating space for new paddlers to develop skills, trust their equipment, and discover their own relationship with the water.