Mountaineer of the Week: Melina Bond

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

Name: Melina Bond
Branch: Olympia
When did you first get involved with The Mountaineers? 2021
What youth programs do you participate in with The Mountaineers? Summer Camp

10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS

Why do you participate in Mountaineers Youth Programs?

I participate in The Mountaineers youth programs because it’s really fun to get outside, be with other people, and learn about nature in a supportive environment.

What is your favorite Mountaineers memory?

My favorite Mountaineers memory was from the camping trip. We hiked to the top of a summit; it was crazy! But the view was MAGNIFICENT. I will never forget it.

What is your favorite outdoor activity and why?

My favorite activity to do outside is swimming. I love swimming and making things with mud. Swimming outdoors is amazing, even though sometimes, especially around here, the water is very cold!!!

If you could give one piece of advice to someone who wanted to spend more time outside, what would you say?

Once piece of advice I have is: MAKE FRIENDS!! Interacting with others is a big part of The Mountaineers and it is a lot more fun if you talk to other people. That doesn’t have to mean being BFFs with every person, but reaching out to others is important.  

What have you learned at The Mountaineers that you have applied to other parts of your life?

One thing I have learned at The Mountaineers is nature etiquette – not just taking care of your campsite but also being aware of wildlife, picking up trash, and stewarding the land. We use these things every day in life, not just when we’re camping.

What things do you like to do when you’re not at Mountaineers youth programs?

I enjoy reading, dancing, and biking. But mostly reading. I LOVE a good book. Some of my favorite books and series are Keeper of the Lost Cities, Fish in A Tree, and all books written by Rick Riordan (the author of the Percy Jackson series). I also play violin and am in an orchestra at my school; we do cool concerts and it’s really fun!

Lightning Round

Gummy candy or chocolate bar? Chocolate covered gummy candy!
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? Levitation
What’s your favorite close-to-home adventure? Spending time in my backyard
If you could be an expert in any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Gardening