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: Kimber Cross
Branch: Tacoma
How long have you been volunteering with The Mountaineers? 8 years
What activities do you participate in with The Mountaineers? Glacier, rock, and ice climbing - leading climbs and instructing for both Basic and Intermediate Alpine Courses
10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS
WHAT FIRST BROUGHT YOU TO THE MOUNTAINEERS?
I joined after my first big break up. I wanted to work through heartbreak by exploring the outdoors on a level I'd never done before.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED AS A VOLUNTEER?
After completing my Basic Alpine Climbing Course, I jumped right into Intermediate Alpine Climbing because I wanted to expand my technical and leadership skills and volunteer my time instructing as it helped solidify my skills and give back to a course that gave me so much.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOUNTAINEERS MEMORY?
Climbing Mount Olympus, the Tooth, and Rainier successfully in a span of nine days.
What is one thing you do as a leader to make your participants feel welcome?
Humility and encouragement go a long way! I've sadly seen the leader halo effect and ego of some leaders hurt and push away newer climbers. My passion for these courses are to advocate for inclusion and build a community full of joy as we learn to climb safely and effectively.
What is one surprising thing you've learned through volunteering with The Mountaineers?
Through volunteering I've learned so many good snack ideas for the mountains. From Uncrustables to green olives, participants are always giving me pro tips for yummy food items to bring on trips.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ASPIRING VOLUNTEERS?
Volunteering is a great way to improve your technical skills! Mountaineering skills like crevasse rescue are perishable if not practiced often so instructing/volunteering each year helps keep you sharp.
LIGHTNING ROUND
What's your favorite close-to-home adventure? I love cycling! A long ride in the evening after a day of work feels amazing.
What's you 11th Essential? Earplugs - you sleep much better!
Post-trip meal or go-to place of choice? Anywhere that has a chocolate milkshake.
If you could be adept at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Paragliding (off summits)
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.
