Michelle Song
Each week we bring you a personal story from one of our members and volunteers. For our volunteer profile this week we talked to...
Name: Duncan Cox
Branch: Seattle
How long have you been volunteering with The Mountaineers? 31 years
What activities do you participate in with The Mountaineers? Sea kayaking
VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP QUESTIONS
WHAT FIRST BROUGHT YOU TO THE MOUNTAINEERS?
I emigrated in 1990 from the UK for work and our offices were in lower Queen Anne by the old clubhouse. As an avid climber and paddler in the UK, I was anxious to learn about the PNW so very quickly joined The Mountaineers and immediately signed up for the basic climbing class.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED AS A VOLUNTEER?
My volunteering started after I took the basic climbing class. I wanted wanted to give back to this community.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOUNTAINEERS MEMORY?
Going on basic climbs with my to be wife, Marla.
WHAT IS ONE THING YOU DO AS A LEADER TO MAKE YOUR PARTICIPANTS FEEL WELCOME?
Bring a sense of humor and try to understand why participants are taking part.
What advice do you have for aspiring volunteers?
LIGHTNING ROUND
Smile or Game Face? Smile
What 11th Essential do you bring on most trips? Earplugs
Post-trip meal or go-to place of choice? Anything or anywhere with fellow paddlers
What's next on your bucket list? I don't do bucket lists, I'm more of an enjoy the experiences that present themselves kind of guy.
If you could be adept at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Foraging for mushrooms
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.
