Today we’d like to introduce you to Rando Morgan
Hi Rando, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
“As a teenager, I witnessed the deadly effects of unmanaged debris in the river. I vowed to create a solution, to keep our waterways safe and clean for paddlers and pay-it-forward for future generations.”
Rando Morgan
Founder and CEO
River Rangers International, Inc.
On a rainy summer day in 1981, four college students visited a canoe livery in search of adventure. The owner refused to rent them boats, due to high water conditions. The students left, determined to find boats elsewhere.
Later that evening, the group was reported missing. With the water high and dangerous, there was little rescue teams could do.
Days later, one of the students was yet to be found. A young Rando Morgan joined in her search. Her mangled body was found pinned underwater by woody debris. It was on that day, Rando vowed to make waterways safe and clean by removing the build up of hazardous debris. He knew one day, he would create River Rangers and pay-it-forward.
In 2013, Rando’s relentless pursuit of his mission became a company, dedicating his time to research and building the foundation for something greater. In 2018, his vision became a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization with an even greater mission.
Today, River Rangers International, Inc. is renowned for “Keeping Waterways Safe and Clean” through the sustainable management of riparian corridors.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
From the age of 17, when created I this idea, I always knew that one day, when I did well in life, I would follow my passion and create River Rangers.
It has been a relentless pursuit for sure, but I never gave up. In fact, I was rejected 128 times and never made a penny for the first 5 years of founding River Rangers. I used my own money, loans, lines-of-credit and whatever I had to do to “Boot-Strap” the company.
It hasn’t been easy, but nothing worth pursuing ever is. Through the endless obstacles and trials, I never gave up, because I knew had something to offer, that would make a difference in this world.
With a lot of hard work, ingenuity, sacrifice, and faith, I was able to survive with a benevolent leadership style, I surrounded myself with the right people, to pioneer new innovative methods and services to grow and evolve. Today, we are healthy and thriving as River Rangers International, Inc. This legacy will live on for many years, impacting the lives of future generations.
All of my gratitude goes out to my dedicated, talented and loyal team, who continue to take this organization to new heights.
Our Mission:
“Keeping Waterways Safe and Clean”
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have always been a very artistic/creative guy with a strong business/financial acumen. I was involved in all sports, music and activities growing up and was a good student.
I worked my way through college, while achieving an Arts Degree, Bachelors of Science Degree in Business, Magna Cum Laude, and a Masters Degree/ MBA in International Business.
As a serial entrepreneur, I started several companies, invested well and always believed I could do a lot of “Good”, by doing “Well”. This allowed me to take the risk of founding River Rangers and survive. Over the years I’ve evolved into the Adventurous Waterpreneur. I know it’s not a real word, but it fits who I am. It combines my passion for the water, adventure and entrepreneurship.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Visionary, leader, motivator, critical thinker, passionate, driven, endless tenacity, altruistic, servant heart, dedication, confidence, focus, and adaptability.
A deep enthusiasm for my work.
Commitment to my goals.
Belief in my abilities.
My ability to adapt.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://RiverRangers.org
- Instagram: river_rangers_international
- Facebook: River Rangers International
- Youtube: River Rangers International @ RIVERRANGERS
