Kristina Ciari Tursi
For our member profile this month we spoke to Loni Uchytil, a climber, skier, and dental hygenist about who inspires her and why she volunteers with The Mountaineers.
10 Essential Questions
After I had been climbing for a few years, I met several climbing friends involved in the climbing programs through The Mountaineers. Because of my enthusiasm, skill level and knowledge of the sport, they recruited me to help in the Crag course at the Seattle branch. Once I started helping, I meet such an amazing community of people that volunteering seemed the natural thing to do. The opportunity to share my passion with others and help grow climbing programs and myself in the process has been really rewarding!
I love the commitment that the Mountaineers has to the community, the environment and its members. We are always trying to grow, improve and lead by example. Volunteers have a voice here and there is such a commitment to excellence that it is inspiring to be a part of that process. As in all large organizations it is not always painless or easy but it is ALWAYS with respect and purpose.
I really don’t have just one memory because with each new class I teach and new group of climbers that come through, I am always so excited and honored to be a part of their learning process. One of the coolest things about teaching is when I run into a former student/s on a climb or overhear them sharing a climbing story about a route they just did and hear the joy and excitement in their voices, knowing that I am in part responsible for that moves and inspires me!
My fellow volunteers and friends inspire me. No course could run without the bounty of the hundreds of volunteer hours that they give freely. I am surrounded by so many really great people that make it possible for me to do what I love to do. I am so grateful to their generosity and support. My students also inspire me every year, with the effort they put in, the fun we have, and the passion they have for climbing!
Lightning Round
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