Ellianna Anisa Thayne
One June day, I waited as a group of teenagers trudged up a trail outside of North Bend, carrying helmets and harnesses and complaining lightheartedly about the early summer heat. They had been practicing climbing skills for weeks at the Seattle Program Center, and now was their chance to put their skills to use in the outdoors. The steep trail, vibrant forest, real rock, and majestic view of the Cascades created an immersive experience for them to enjoy together. Supporting experiences like these is one of the reasons I love my role as a youth programs staff instructor.
As they arrived at the crag, one teen filmed a video on his phone, panning around the ridge and employing internet slang that roused a good laugh from everyone. The group got on some fun climbs, cheering for each other (and others nearby) with every move. We enjoyed the dappled shade and impressive views for hours. But the moment that really sticks with me is when we were packing up to leave: the videographer teen stood up, looked over the forest, and announced “Man, I needed this nature time.”
“I needed this” is a sentiment that resonates among many Mountaineers when we find ourselves outside. Do you remember when you felt this for the first time?
Your year-end donation will grow our community and support initiatives like our Youth Partner Programs (YPPs) that inspire the next generation of outdoorspeople. By partnering with groups like The Nature Project, SheJumps, and the Outdoor Educators Institute’s Justice Outside program, we are investing in the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts and conservationists. In 2025, with your support, we are planning to grow this program to serve even more youth.
As a teenager, I went on a school-sponsored hike that inspired a sense of belonging and confidence in me I have never forgotten. A single afternoon in the woods with my classmates reinforced how important getting outside is to my personal wellbeing. I have pursued outdoor recreation under my own initiative ever since.
Getting outside confidently and finding belonging isn’t just about carrying the Ten Essentials and learning the latest skills. It’s also about being able to bring your authentic self outside and know that you will be accepted and encouraged by your community. By helping youth explore outdoor recreation, especially those on the brink of adulthood, we are investing in the future of outdoor education and conservation. Youth who find joy, confidence, and belonging outdoors today will be instructors, leaders, and advocates alongside us in no time.
It is our privilege to support the youngest members of our outdoor community. Donations from members make this possible - from supporting individual youth and families in camps and clubs through scholarships to subsidizing workshops and field trips for youth-serving organizations. We continue to create moments of wonder that inspire young people to love and protect our natural world.
This month, we need to raise $215,000 to continue our mission in 2025 and beyond. Today, we are 53% of the way there. Will you make a year-end donation to support the future of our outdoor community?
The Mountaineers® is a 501(c)(3) organization supported through earned revenue and elevated through charitable contributions. Our staff work to support our seven branches (Bellingham, Everett, Foothills, Kitsap, Olympia, Seattle, and Tacoma), three lodges (Baker, Meany, and Stevens), and our Kitsap Forest Theater. Tax ID: 27-3009280. 7700 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115.
