Steve LeBrun
Meet Foothills volunteer Christina Buckman. Christina was raised in Yakima and started hiking after her daughter went to college - and never stopped! She loves volunteering and is excited to be a part of our community.
When did you come to the Northwest, and why did you join The Mountaineers?
I was born and raised in Yakima, WA, and moved to the PNW in 1998. Although I loved the outdoors all of my life, it wasn't until my daughter left for college that I started hiking on a regular basis. I joined The Mountaineers in 2012, yet it wasn't until 2014 that I took my first solo hike up Mt. Si (without conditioning!). Needless to say I was hooked. My draw to The Mountaineers is simple: camaraderie and a passion for being outdoors. 7 years later, I've met amazing people, made life-long friends, and have recently become a hike leader. It's been a rewarding and life-changing experience on my journey to better health and enjoying the outdoors.
What gives you the most satisfaction when volunteering?
When I volunteer with The Mountaineers, it's the human connections that gives me the most satisfaction. It is a joy to get to know people and share experiences, and through that I am reminded that we truly have more commonalities than not. That creates meaningful connections and also plenty of laughter along the way! My mentors have been truly amazing, and I draw from their knowledge and experience. The Mountaineers have given me so much, and in return, my satisfaction comes in giving back.
Do you have a favorite hike or backpack route to lead?
As a new leader, I'm currently focusing more on gentle conditioning hikes, and will expand as I get more experienced as a leader. A favorite to date is taking an enthusiastic and brave group in the snow up to Cedar and Pine Lakes on Chuckanut Mountain just this February. Nothing grand as far as views, but it was more about how we all interacted and took care of each other. We embraced the snow, and enjoyed every minute of it! I led my first backpack overnight to Black Canyon/Umtanum Ridge, and I’m looking forward to leading more in the future!
