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: Daisy Fish
Branch: Seattle
How long have you been volunteering with The Mountaineers? Since 2022
What activities do you participate in with The Mountaineers? Intensive Basic Alpine Climbing and Self-Rescue I and II
10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS
WHAT FIRST BROUGHT YOU TO THE MOUNTAINEERS?
I was working with a current member that is involved with the Intensive Basic Alpine Climbing course and he recommended that I apply, given my love of climbing. I also wanted more knowledge and experience to be safe in the alpine environment.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED AS A VOLUNTEER?
I took the Intensive Basic Alpine Climbing course in 2021 and immediately came back to volunteer as an instructor the following year. I soon became involved as an instructor for the Self-Rescue courses and now I am co-chair for both!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOUNTAINEERS MEMORY?
I already have so many great memories! My first summit on an alpine climb (SEWS at Washington Pass) as a student was very special as it was something I worked toward for a long time. I also had a wonderful moment with a student last year working through her first outdoor rock climb. I was so proud of how hard she worked and her ability to keep trying. Getting to be part of those moments for others is really rewarding.
WHAT IS ONE THING YOU DO AS A LEADER TO MAKE YOUR PARTICIPANTS FEEL WELCOME?
I think it's important for people to know that I started right where they are (or sometimes with less skill) and if I can do it, so can they! I think people are capable of more than they realize but sometimes they need the encouragement to try and fail so they can learn. It's always ok to fail!
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ASPIRING VOLUNTEERS?
Just do it! It seems like silly advice, but anyone can be a volunteer at some level. You don't have to know everything to come and help teach others. Plus, being able to teach something makes you learn it in a new way. I have also made life-long friends as a volunteer.
LIGHTNING ROUND
What's your favorite close-to-home adventure? Exploring urban trails on the Kitsap peninsula with my dog
What's you 11th Essential? Chocolate
Post-trip meal or go-to place of choice? Burritos!
What's next on your bucket list? Mount Stuart - West Ridge
If you could be adept at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Backcountry 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!
If you’re a leader (or want to nominate a leader to spotlight), send an email to Michelle Song to make a recommendation.
