Michelle Song
Each week we bring you a personal story from one of our members and volunteers. For our volunteer profile this week we talked to...
Name: Khrum Kashan
Branch: Everett
How long have you been volunteering with The Mountaineers? 6 years
What activities do you participate in with The Mountaineers? Climbing, scrambling, snowshoeing, hiking
VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP QUESTIONS
What first brought you to the mountaineers?
I used to hike and scramble before and always wanted to climb Mount Rainier. I used guide services two times, and couldn't summit due to weather. At that point some friends recommended I join The Mountaineers. I started with the Basic program and that was start of the journey. I summitted Rainer with a classmate from my course the following year (2018).
How did you get started as a volunteer?
I am always inspired by and thankful for the volunteers who helped me achieve my goals. They just come and volunteer for the love of the mountains and for people's safety. This was always inspiring for me, and I started volunteering in 2017.
What is your favorite Mountaineers memory?
My favorite memory was an intermediate climb of the west ridge of Mount Stuart. It was late in the season so we had to carry all the water (around 4L) for two days as we descended over to Cascadian Couloir from the lake. I tried to pack light and my sleeping system was not fully rain proof so I ended up spending some time in a black garbage bag due to a little rain and overcast weather. It was my favorite memories; certainly one of the classic climbs and I loved it. I still cherish that climb.
What is one surprising thing you've learned through volunteering with The Mountaineers?
Being a volunteer is more rewarding than you think. You meet with amazing people and most of time people are very thankful and appreciative.
What advice do you have for aspiring volunteers?
Having a mentor is the key. Find a mentor in your branch or in The Mountaineers who can guide you and help you in this journey.
LIGHTNING ROUND
Smile or Game Face? Smile
What's your favorite close-to-home adventure? Stevens Pass
What 11th Essential do you bring on most trips? inflatable pillow
Post-trip meal or go-to place of choice? Mexican Food
What's next on your bucket list? It's a very long list...
NOMINATE YOURSELF FOR MOUNTAINEER OF THE WEEK
Mountaineers volunteers 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 leadership, and we hope these weekly features highlight how our trip leaders, course instructors, and committee and branch officers support our community. 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!
If you’re a leader (or want to nominate a leader to spotlight), send an email to Michelle Song to make a recommendation.
