When you join Inwood Canoe Club, you’re entering a new realm of adventure, exploration and friendship. We are a diverse bunch of “Turtles” (our nickname for ourselves) with varied backgrounds and paddling experience. What unites us is our love for water, the environment, conservation, and developing our skills.

Members are expected to volunteer regularly to support the club’s public programs, clean up and maintain the grounds, help with repairs to the boathouse, boats, and equipment, and to paddle. Members have the opportunity to participate in members-only classes and trips and may use club boats and equipment.

Due to space constraints and to ensure access to shared boats and equipment, a limited number of new members are admitted annually. It is important to visit the boathouse, help out during public programs, shoreline cleanups, and other events, and to speak with club members to learn more.

Qualifications for membership

Anyone who is not already a member of the club may apply for Athletic Membership. Former or inactive members of the Club who remain "in good standing" may also re-apply for Athletic Membership. Anyone applying for Athletic membership must meet the following qualifications:

1. Be an adult, eighteen years or older

2. Show up to at least six (6) events in the year of application, volunteering at three (3) or more of them.

3. Adhere to House Rules as we would expect of any member in good standing.

2024 Membership application

The 2024 application window has ended, but the 2025 window will open next year.

Membership rules

• Membership, or a change in membership status, requires the approval (via simple majority) of the voting membership at a regular meeting of the club.

• Once membership or a change in membership status has been approved by the voting membership, the Secretary shall notify the applicant in writing of the result, and take necessary steps that result from the decision, including describing the history and traditions of the club, and the expectations of their new membership status.

• All members are expected to volunteer at a minimum of three club events every year. At least one of these events must be a “work day”, or in-kind service, set forth by the Board.

• All members are eligible for a storage space for their personal effects, if the Vice Commodore determines space is available.

• Additionally, paddling apparel and equipment may also be stored at the boathouse in communal areas, if space is available.

• All members are eligible to have keys to the boathouse and grounds following a probationary period of six months, provided they meet the criteria for key ownership as set forth in the House Rules.

• Athletic Members are encouraged to attend Club meetings but do not have a vote. Athletic Members may work on committees appointed by the Commodore.