Jim Whittaker
As a Mountaineers member over the last 75 years, I have discovered that individual and communal learning takes place when we find ourselves at the edge of our comfort zone. Being out on the edge is where we learn and grow the most. The skills, education, and experiences we receive through The Mountaineers take us to that edge, guide us to uncover our unique leadership styles, teach us what it takes to protect our planet, and inspire us to give back to the communities that shape us.
Dianne and I were hoping to see many of you this week at The Mountaineers Annual Gala: Adventure with Purpose. With the gala rescheduled we’ve found ourselves All Dressed Up With Nowhere to Go. Since we can’t see you tomorrow night, we made a video to kick off the virtual gala weekend and to let you know how we’re doing in Port Townsend. Now is not the time to retreat, it is a time to stand together, even if we must do so from a distance.
Life is about the challenges we overcome, and today we are faced with the unprecedented challenge of proceeding safely through the COVID-19 outbreak. In moments like these we need strong and diverse leaders in our community. We need a readiness to support one another. These are the types of leaders and behaviors developed through a life outdoors.
That’s why we’re pledging $500 to this week’s Virtual Raise the Paddle for The Mountaineers. We are giving today to support the future of outdoor education and the volunteer-leaders who make programs at The Mountaineers possible.
As we heard from Vik Sahney this week, The Mountaineers Board of Directors have pooled together funds to match every gift over $100 up to $36,000. We only need $15,000 more to reach the match. Will you join me with your donation today?
There are many ways to participate from bidding in the online auction, joining the Peak Society, or helping the Board reach our matching pool. In addition, the Senate’s recent stimulus package made a new deduction available for taxpayers. Under the bill, people who don’t itemize their taxes could deduct up to $300 in cash donations for the 2020 tax year. The bill will also lift the cap on annual giving from 60% of adjusted gross income to 100%. Please consult your professional advisors for tax-related decisions and filing.
