Mountaineer of the Week: Chuck Welter

Meet Chuck, Meany Lodge Chair since 1999, who enjoys quality chocolate and is amazed by the range and depth of experiences guests bring to the lodge.
The Mountaineers The Mountaineers
September 27, 2024
Mountaineer of the Week: Chuck Welter

Each week we bring you a personal story from one of our members. For our member profile this week we talked to...

Name: Chuck Welter (he/him)
Branch: Tacoma
How long have you been volunteering with The Mountaineers?  Since 1996
What activities do you volunteer with at The Mountaineers? Meany Lodge

10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS

WHAT FIRST BROUGHT YOU TO THE MOUNTAINEERS?

I joined in 1978 when my then girlfriend, now wife, signed my application.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED AS A VOLUNTEER?

Our son started taking snowboard lessons at Meany Lodge in 1996. I volunteered as a tow operator.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOUNTAINEERS MEMORY?

My favorite memories are watching young people at Meany Lodge grow up and take on more responsibility as they mature.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU DO AS A LEADER TO MAKE YOUR PARTICIPANTS FEEL WELCOME?

I try to personally greet every newcomer to Meany. I want them to know they are welcome and that we are happy to enjoy their company.

What is one surprising thing you've learned through volunteering with The Mountaineers?

I continue to be amazed at the range and depth of experiences that our guests bring to Meany Lodge. The diversity of our guest list never ceases to amaze me.

LIGHTNING ROUND

What's your favorite close-to-home adventure? Kayaking Commencement Bay
What's you 11th Essential? Quality chocolate bars
Post-trip meal or go-to place of choice? Somewhere with a greasy spoon burger
What's next on your bucket list? Another UNESCO site
If you could be adept at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Deep powder skiing

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!

SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES

If you’re a leader (or want to nominate a leader to spotlight), send an email to Michelle Song to make a recommendation.


Add a comment

Log in to add comments.
Danielle Graham
Danielle Graham says:
Sep 27, 2024 02:22 PM

I love this: "I try to personally greet every newcomer to Meany. I want them to know they are welcome and that we are happy to enjoy their company." Thanks, Chuck.

Anna Weitnauer
Anna Weitnauer says:
Sep 29, 2024 06:15 PM

Thanks for all you are doing for The Mountaineers and Meany Lodge! It's a joy to get to know you.