Rivers as Bridges is a non-profit organization that works to foster collaboration between China and the United States through cultural exchange and conservation efforts focused on the Yangtze and Mississippi Rivers. The organization was founded by Hanning Bi from China and Maria Ontiveros from the US who met in college and wanted to strengthen bonds between their cultures while protecting important river resources. Rivers as Bridges brings Chinese and American students together for educational programs emphasizing mutual respect and cooperation around natural resource stewardship and the role of rivers in each society's culture, conservation, and commerce. The Yangtze and Mississippi Rivers are both historically and economically vital waterways that this organization strives to preserve through engaging youth in appreciation and stewardship of these natural