Impact Giving: Improving Access Through Scholarships

The Mountaineers just wrapped up another fiscal year, and we’re excited to share about the impact we achieved together through the Mountaineers Access Program (MAP) scholarship fund.

Thanks in part to our generous community, last year we helped 348 youth and adults break down financial barriers, access the magic of Mountaineers programs, and find a sense of belonging in our vibrant outdoor community.

Our Mountaineers Access Program ensures that participants can find joy, confidence, and community in the outdoors, regardless of ability to pay. If you were one of the many who donated last year to support MAP, thank you! 

Here are a few messages of gratitude from our 2024–2025 scholarship recipients:

“I grew up on a block where neighbors spent their whole lives without going to a state or national park... Your generosity offered me the privilege to reach heights past the largest skyscraper in my hometown, Chicago. Your donation is a reminder that I, too, want to pay it forward with my time and knowledge gained to those who would value an introduction to the outdoors. Thank you!” 

– Jeanette Singanogo Sigui Ralyea, Basic Alpine Climbing course 

“Thank you so much! After a confusing and scary year that included a few months of homelessness and a lot of uncertainty, being able to send my daughter to camp where she could literally climb mountains meant everything. It's been amazing for my daughter... strengthening her courage and independence has been terrific.” 

– Parent of a scholarship recipient, Stevens Lodge camp

“Thank you so much for allowing low-income people like me to find new ways to enjoy the outdoors... It was so incredible to be gliding through the snowy forest, so intimate to silently observe the winter landscape and animals. To be able to allow folks who have financial barriers to get outside and experience new things is extremely important.”

– Edward Brown, Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing

Building a Community Where Everyone can Adventure with Purpose

In 2025, your support opened doors to nearly every facet of The Mountaineers experience. People across every branch found joy and confidence through courses, activities, and Youth Programs, thanks to scholarships that helped them overcome financial barriers.

These scholarships were utilized for a vast range of skills and adventures — from technical programs like packrafting and canyoning to foundational skills like the Conditioning Hiking Series. Scholarships helped 27 people access essential first aid courses, and 48 families were able to afford summer camp and other Youth Programs in Seattle, Olympia, Tacoma, and Kitsap.

To our incredible and inspiring community, thank you! Your generosity and commitment to building a community that welcomes everyone outside speaks to the heart of what it means to Adventure with Purpose.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we turn the page toward another year of helping more people find belonging outdoors, we invite you to continue championing our mission. Your future support helps us keep the momentum going, ensuring that inclusion and belonging remain at the heart of The Mountaineers community.

If you are inspired by the impact made this year, we hope you'll consider joining us again this Giving Season to help even more people Adventure with Purpose.

DONATE

MAP SCHOLARSHIP FAQ

Who can apply for a scholarship? Anyone – members and non-members – may apply for a scholarship. Adults must apply for scholarships on behalf of minors or dependents.

When can I apply for a scholarship? Be sure to apply at least two weeks before you wish to register for your course or activate your membership.

How can I support scholarships? You can directly support scholarships with a tax-deductible donation at mountaineers.org/scholarshipfund. Members like you are also leveraging tax-smart ways to give through donor advised funds, appreciated stock, IRA contributions, and more.

For more information about scholarships, contact Member Services at 206-521-6001 or info@mountaineers.org. Together, we're building a stronger, more connected community.