Our Mission:
Empower.
We are a community of people who work hard to promote the sport of rowing and who act as stewards of the Schuylkill River — all while having fun!
BLJ Community Rowing embraces rowers of all skill levels, from every walk of life. Access to the river — for all — is our guiding principle!
Our Impact
BLJ Community Rowing is the only African-American-owned and operated rowing organization in the country. Since 2013, we have utilized the sport of rowing to give others access to the Schuylkill and a vehicle to a better life.
Our Community firmly believes that when options are given, options can be created, and making rowing accessible is our priority.
Check our programs
Each program is created to suit different levels of experience.
Make a Donation
Donations support our mission to make rowing more inclusive and available to everyone regardless of background.
Upcoming Events
2026 Kentucky Derby Spring Fundraiser
$75.00
BLJ Community’s Annual Kentucky Derby Fundraiser has returned! Our annual Kentucky Derby Fundraiser helps offset some of the equipment and staffing costs that are not covered by our annual dues. We work hard to keep our dues affordable and that means that we have to actively fund raise. It is imperative that we keep up with the constant repairs that our fleet requires due to the high usage from our growing community, so that we can continue to provide access to all in the great sport of rowing.
Date: Saturday, May 2nd
Time: 5pm
Venue: BLJ Studio (4229 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19129)
Encouraged: Derby attire and yes, that means hats!
2026 Kentucky Derby Spring Fundraiser
$75.00
BLJ Community’s Annual Kentucky Derby Fundraiser has returned! Our annual Kentucky Derby Fundraiser helps offset some of the equipment and staffing costs that are not covered by our annual dues. We work hard to keep our dues affordable and that means that we have to actively fund raise. It is imperative that we keep up with the constant repairs that our fleet requires due to the high usage from our growing community, so that we can continue to provide access to all in the great sport of rowing.
Date: Saturday, May 2nd
Time: 5pm
Venue: BLJ Studio (4229 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19129)
Encouraged: Derby attire and yes, that means hats!