The Mountaineers
Each week we bring you a personal story from one of our members. For our member profile this week we talked to..
Name Erik Jensen (he/him)
Hometown Bellevue, WA
Member since 2022
Occupation Corporate finance
Favorite activities Day hiking and downhill skiing
10 Essential Questions:
What first brought you to The Mountaineers?
I joined to connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts and develop my outdoor skills. I have completed courses such as Wilderness Navigation and Wilderness First Aid, and participated in numerous Mountaineers activities. Through these experiences, I strengthened my outdoor preparedness, found new places to explore, and built meaningful connections with other members.
How did you get started as a Volunteer?
I was looking for volunteer opportunities and shortly after joining The Mountaineers, I saw an opening posted for the Foothills Branch Treasurer. With my background in finance and accounting, I thought it would be a good role for me. I started in that role in 2023. I also recently volunteered to serve as the Board Treasurer for The Mountaineers.
What's your favorite Mountaineers memory?
I signed up for a day hike near Wenatchee to see the wildflowers. I had never hiked on that side of the mountains and didn't even know wildflowers were a thing there. I was amazed at how many there were. The scenery was stunning and part of the trail had the Enchantments as a backdrop. Highly recommend! I'm not sure I ever would have discovered this without The Mountaineers activity posting.
What is one surprising thing you've learned through volunteering with the mountaineers?
I've been surprised by how much of The Mountaineers is volunteer led, and by the dedication and time so many volunteers put in. Many courses and activities are led by people who simply want to share their passion for the outdoors and the skills they've developed.
What inspires you to donate to The Mountaineers?
I've really enjoyed my experiences with The Mountaineers — the people I've met, the friendships I've made. I want others to have those same opportunities, and donating is my way of giving back to an organization that brings me so much joy and furthers a mission I believe in.
What impact do you hope to have in our community through your donations?
I hope my donations encourage and enable people to explore the outdoors, find a community, discover activities they love, and ultimately find ways to give back.
Lightning round
Sunrise or sunset? Sunset
Smile or game face? Game face
What’s your 11th essential? Camera
What's your favorite outdoor activity close-to-home? Day hiking
NOMINATE YOURSELF FOR MOUNTAINEER OF THE WEEK
Mountaineers come in all shapes and sizes, varying widely in age, outdoor experience, and length of time involved in The Mountaineers. Part of what makes our community so unique is the broad diversity of our membership, and we hope these weekly features highlight who we are and why our community plays an important part in feeling belonging in the outdoors. We are always seeking self-nominations for our Mountaineer of the Week, and we invite you to share your story. Trust us, we want to hear from you!
Want to nominate a friend? Email Bayley Stejer to make a recommendation.
