About

River Discovery Founders

Joe and Fran Tonsmeire

Founders, 2006

River Discovery was founded in October 2006 by Joe and Fran Tonsmeire, longtime whitewater rafting outfitters and ranchers from Lemhi, Idaho. Inspired by their love of the river and shaped by their own experiences with cancer, they envisioned a place where people—especially youth—could face the emotional and physical challenges of cancer in a healing, adventurous environment. Their dream: to create river-based programs that restore hope, build confidence, and ignite joy.

With decades of guiding experience through their family business, Wilderness River Outfitters, Joe and Fran knew firsthand the profound power of wild places and moving water. Their vision for River Discovery was deeply rooted in this belief.

Tonsmeire Family

Joe

Joe lived life wide open. Whether he was running rivers, climbing mountains, herding cattle, or chasing elk, he did it with passion and joy. A true adventurer, he loved Idaho’s land and rivers and shared that love with everyone around him. Before his death in March 2007, Joe helped plan River Discovery’s very first adventure—realizing his dream of taking children with cancer down the river. He left behind a legacy of laughter, love for the outdoors, and unforgettable stories where, somehow, he always had the most fun.

Fran

Fran wore many hats and wore them all with heart—wife, mother, sister, rancher, river runner, land conservationist, and of course, co-founder and dedicated board member of River Discovery. Her unwavering belief in the healing power of nature and community made her River Discovery’s most devoted champion. Fran fought cancer three times with strength and grace, passing away in November 2014 surrounded by those who loved her most. She remains our rock, our inspiration, and our guiding light.

Amy

Amy grew up in the Wilderness River Outfitter (WRO) business, spending summers exploring rivers in Idaho, Oregon, Montana, Alaska, and Canada. Amy is a graduate from Montana State University in graphic design and business. She still does some freelance design work, but spends most of her time these days managing Sweetwater Hollow, which she founded a few years ago on the banks of the Salmon River as an event venue hosting weddings, concerts and other events in Salmon. Her passions are snowboarding and hockey in the winter and kayaking and rivers in the summer. She is enthusiastic and loves sharing a good time with others.

Seth

Seth grew up in the Wilderness River Outfitter business, spending summers exploring rivers in Idaho, Oregon, Montana, Alaska, and Canada. With nearly 300 multi-day river trips and almost 20 years of guiding experience, he is committed to upholding the WRO tradition of quality wilderness adventures. During the summer, Seth enjoys rafting, kayaking, fishing, and sharing wild places. In winter, he focuses on backcountry skiing and organizing trips for the upcoming season. He graduated from Montana State University in 2008 with a degree in Geography and a minor in Native American Studies.

About River Discovery

River Discovery is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in October 2006 by Joe and Fran Tonsmeire, seasoned whitewater rafting outfitters and ranchers from Lemhi, Idaho. Inspired by their deep connection to the land and river—and shaped by personal experiences with cancer—they envisioned outdoor adventures that promote healing, confidence, and connection for cancer survivors.

In 2007, with a generous $50,000 start-up grant from the Steele-Reese Foundation, River Discovery launched its first programs: ranch-based adventures for youth cancer and hemophilia survivors. Participants spent a week immersed in the outdoors—rafting, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, and fishing.

By 2008, the organization refined its mission to focus exclusively on river adventures for cancer survivors. In 2009, River Discovery introduced its first teen wilderness trip without a parent, encouraging independence and personal growth for young survivors. These experiences laid the foundation for the organization’s signature offering: an annual 6-day Salmon River expedition for adult cancer survivors.

To expand its reach, River Discovery moved its administrative office to Boise in 2012, enhancing collaboration with hospitals and community partners. That same year, the organization launched its first one-day family river trip, offering shorter but equally impactful adventures.

Since then, River Discovery has become a vibrant part of the Treasure Valley’s cancer survivorship community, building strong partnerships with local businesses and foundations. These collaborations have fueled new programs, including summer stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) sessions, designed to meet survivors where they are—physically, emotionally, and geographically.

In most recent years, River Discovery has proudly served close to 300 cancer survivors and their loved ones, continuing its mission to bring healing, hope, and adventure to those navigating life after cancer.

Mission:

River Discovery offers outdoor adventures for cancer survivors that promote healing and strengthening of the mind, body and spirit. Programs are created to inspire, empower, and heal survivors of all ages and with any diagnosis.

Vision:

To inspire and empower cancer survivors by getting them outdoors, engaged in recreational activities, and connected with a supportive community. We strive to foster an active lifestyle filled with adventure, friendship, and nourishing foods—key elements proven to enhance overall health and well-being for survivors and their loved ones.

Impact:

Cancer affects every aspect of life, often shaking confidence, trust in the body, and the ability to fully embrace life. Through outdoor adventures, River Discovery helps survivors reclaim their strength, build confidence, and reconnect with the joy of living. Nature’s healing power rejuvenates the spirit, fosters resilience, and empowers survivors to face challenges with renewed courage.

What we do and why we do it!

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