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: Gregg Gagliardi
Branch: Tacoma
How long have you been volunteering with The Mountaineers? Since 1985
What activities do you volunteer with at The Mountaineers? Climbing, sport climbing, ice climbing, scrambling
10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS
WHAT FIRST BROUGHT YOU TO THE MOUNTAINEERS?
My love of outdoor adventures.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED AS A VOLUNTEER?
While taking the Intermediate Alpine Climbing course, I discovered that I enjoyed teaching others, particularly technical skills.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOUNTAINEERS MEMORY?
Completing the Ptarmigan Traverse with Marty Babare, Mark Lemon, Tom LaBrie, and Bill Hecker.
WHAT IS ONE THING YOU DO AS A LEADER TO MAKE YOUR PARTICIPANTS FEEL WELCOME?
I tell self-deprecating jokes and stories about goofy mistakes I have made.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ASPIRING VOLUNTEERS?
Ready or not, jump in with both feet. Just do it. There are plenty of other volunteers and instructors who have your back.
LIGHTNING ROUND
What's your favorite close-to-home adventure?
Owens Beach to Salmon Beach around Point Defiance at low tide when the Harbor Seals are playing
What's you 11th Essential? Whiskey
Post-trip meal or go-to place of choice? The best Mexican restaurant on the way home
What's next on your bucket list?
Circumnavigation of Carmen Island (Sea of Cortez)
If you could be adept at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Aid climbing
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.
