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 Ireland Kress
Branch Tacoma
When did you get involved with The Mountaineers? Summer 2021
What youth programs do you participate in with The Mountaineers? Camps, MAC, Family Programs
10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED WITH THE MOUNTAINEERS?
I participated in a few family programs when I was younger, the most prominent in my memory being a sea kayaking course, but at that age I didn’t yet fully understand what it meant to go outside with The Mountaineers. In summer 2021, I did the Irish Cabin weeklong summer camp and then wanted to do more to stay involved. The next summer, I did the teen backpacking trip and from there was invited to join the MAC program. After getting involved with MAC, my love for The Mountaineers has grown incredibly.
WHY DO YOU PARTICIPATE IN MOUNTAINEERS YOUTH PROGRAMS?
I participate in The Mountaineers Youth Programs for a variety of reasons. The main reason is, of course, my love for anything outdoors. Another reason I participate is because of the inclusive and welcoming community I am now a part of.
When given the opportunity to be outside and practice outdoor skills regularly, I am a better person in all aspects of my life. I am planning to keep the outdoors, and all that encompasses, a part of my life for as long as possible, including a part of my future career. I am considering getting a degree in ecology or glaciology and I plan to get my outdoor certifications to become a mountain guide.
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE MOUNTAINEERS MEMORY?
My favorite memory with The Mountaineers is probably my very first MAC trip. It was an overnight Leavenworth climbing trip. I remember going into that trip feeling nervous because I really didn't know what to expect but everyone was so welcoming and willing to teach me the ropes (literally!). Also, it was my first time climbing outdoors in a very long time, and it ended up being great. Specifically, I remember everyone being so supportive when I was doing my first outdoor lead, and later in the season my first trad lead and first multi-pitch. The level of support and camaraderie is one of the main reasons I love The Mountaineers so much.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE OUTDOOR ACTIVITY AND WHY?
When I first joined the organization, I think it would've been easy to say it was climbing. But, now, after being introduced to so many different outdoor disciplines, it’s a lot harder to choose one activity in particular. If I had to choose one it would probably be mountaineering, and especially glacier travel, because it is something that not a lot of people get to experience, and the feeling of summiting a mountain is unmatched.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone who wanted to spend more time outside, what would you say?
I recommend trying everything you can and making the most of the options and opportunities you're given! And that confidence is key to outdoor success - if you believe you can do something, then you usually can.
What things do you like to do when you’re not at Mountaineers youth programs?
I enjoy climbing indoors, as well as a variety of other sports. I also very much enjoy creating art and overall, I find school to be a fun challenge. I also love spending time with my dog, my friends, and my family. I live in an all-girls household with three sisters and my mother. My youngest sister just joined Explorers and I plan to help volunteer with her cohort next year.
LIGHTNING ROUND!
What’s your favorite close-to-home adventure? Sledding with my family at Snoqualmie Pass
Favorite post-activity meal? Enchiladas with beans and rice
What's your 11th Essential? Playing cards
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? Upward glissading
