River Corridor Foundation of St. Charles’ series:

A River Flows Through It… Life in the Fox River Valley 

Join Jenni Kempf Schiavone, the Director of Education Programs Operations at the Baker Community Center, 101 S. Second St, St. Charles, IL for a photo and video journey along her full-length Fox River paddle. 

Jenni had always wanted to paddle the entire length of the Fox River, and in celebration of the 2022 It’s Our Fox River Day, an annual event in September to celebrate our watershed, she did just that. Growing up on its banks in Algonquin Shores, the river was foundational in her upbringing. Now it is her job to lead joyous experiences to help children understand and value the river and their role in protecting it. 

From portaging around the Fox River’s 16 dams, crossing one of the most heavily used powerboat recreation areas at the Chain O’Lakes, and unplanned camping, when necessary, the 202-mile paddling trip was no easy feat for Jenni and the friends that accompanied her. But challenges were balanced by majesty and firsthand Fox River education that she will carry with her in her role at FOTFR. Hear all about it and bring your nostalgic Fox River stories for a presentation and talk about this impactful voyage.

Click here to read about Jenni’s trip.