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: Leone Kraus
Hometown: Grayling, Michigan
Member Since: January 2016
Occupation: Corporate and Foundation Relations Manager for The Mountaineers
Favorite Activities: Running, yoga, kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, biking, and cross country skiing.
10 Essentials: Questions
How did you get involved with The Mountaineers?
My path to The Mountaineers is unique one. I worked on marketing and communications for sustainability and environmental stewardship. I've known for a long time that I wanted to shift my career to the non-profit sector and found a true passion for sustainability and environmental communications. When The Mountaineers job alert for the Corporate and Foundation Relations position hit my inbox, I applied immediately. Now, here I am - a new member and a new employee on staff. I've never been more excited to be part of such an amazing organization!
What motivates you to get outside with us?
The promise of a beer and a burger at the end of a hike always gets me outside. I also really enjoy running around water, so if I'm near a lake or ocean, I likely have my running shoes on.
What's your favorite Mountaineers memory?
My favorite has been sitting in on the Mountain Workshop classes. I really enjoy seeing the youth build leadership and trust with one another. I'm really excited to play a small role in introducing young people to their own capabilities.
Who/What inspires you?
I'm going to be a mom soon, my wife and I are expecting our daughter in May. The birth of our daughter has inspired me to think more about the impact I want to make in this world, particularly as it relates to protecting our parks and waters.
What does adventure mean to you?
Adventure means getting out there and putting your all into something you've always wanted to do. For me, an adventure could be as simple as visiting a park that I haven't been to or something as big as going white water rafting down Tara River Canyon in Bosnia. (I've done this.)
Lightning Round
Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise.
Smile or game face? Gameface.
What's your happy place? Tasting my latest batch of homebrew.
Post-adventure meal of choice? Burger and a beer.
If you could be a rock star at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Climbing. I'd love to get over my fear of heights.
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