Austin Youth River Watch
Austin Youth River Watch combines peer mentoring with intensive environmental education and engages youth through nature-based and experiential service-learning programs in environmental science. Students engage in water quality monitoring, restoration projects, and outdoor experiences—often for the first time. To ensure accessibility, AYRW provides transportation, nutritious meals, and stipends.
Austin Youth River Watch (AYRW) has been serving youth in the City of Austin since 1991, and I’m proud to say it’s been a part of my life journey. What began as a safe and supportive space for me as a high school student has grown into a lifelong connection, one that helped ignite my passion for the outdoors and the environmental field. Today, I have the privilege of serving as Co-Executive Director of AYRW, where I get to pay itndy, forward. Every day, we empower youth to connect with nature, discover their potential, and build brighter futures—just as AYRW did for me. Thank you to the MLS, the Black Players for Change, and RBC Wealth Management for recognizing the impact of our work and selecting Austin Youth River Watch as a 2025 MLS All-Star Hometown Hero.
