Brynne Koscianski
One special evening earlier this year, I found myself in a moment of transcendent wonderment. I was at Bruni’s Snow Bowl Hut, surrounded by warm air, majestic views of Tahoma, and the soft hues of a setting sun. My three-year-old gleefully devoured his first s’more with sticky hands and my one-year-old watched the campfire’s sparks with wide-eyed wonder. My husband’s hand in mine, and the laughter of our friends and their children, rounded out a precious and poignant experience.
In moments like these, distractions melt away and life’s most essential elements reign supreme: time and space for connection, the security of deep, enduring love, the ability to sit in awe at the grandeur of our natural world where time takes on the dimension of centuries rather than seconds. I remembered that we are caregivers - of each other, of these places, of our future.
The Mountaineers has been a leader in conservation for more than a century, transforming outdoor enthusiasts into passionate advocates for the places they love. We unite 30,000 voices to promote climate resiliency, protect public lands, and ensure equitable access to the outdoors. These critical efforts depend on strategic action, partnerships, and financial support to fund this important work.
Yvon Chouinard once wrote, “There is a strong case for giving more now… Like any investment that accrues over time, the realized benefits of immediate giving may be much greater than giving a larger amount at a later time. This is certainly true of the rapidly expanding environmental problems.” I believe this urgency applies to our work to conserve the natural world and the outdoor experience.
The Mountaineers fosters transformative outdoor experiences that build the community and skills we need to take action. Our volunteer-led courses empower people to explore confidently and responsibly, cultivating deep respect for nature and inspiring stewardship. And as our members grow their connection to the outdoors, they become vital advocates in the fight to preserve it.
As we sat by the campfire that late summer night, I felt a renewed commitment to protecting this experience for others, for my children, and for future generations. We have a responsibility to protect what we cherish.
In the face of threats to our climate, lands, and waters, we must take strategic and united action to protect these special places and the outdoor experiences they provide. Donations to The Mountaineers support some of our most impactful work in this arena, including:
- Meaningful relationships with land managers and policymakers to advocate for the priorities of our outdoor community, from trailhead permitting and park operations to wilderness designations and climate policy.
- Mission-driven publishing at Mountaineers Books promoting conservation, low impact recreation, and sustainable lifestyle to our international community of members and readers.
- Conservation education for Mountaineers of all ages, including online learning, sustainable lifestyle books, and conservation curriculum for Mountaineers youth programs.
We need to raise $215,000 by December 31. Will you join me in making a year-end donation to support The Mountaineers mission and community?
The Mountaineers® is a 501(c)(3) organization supported through earned revenue and elevated through charitable contributions. Our staff work to support our seven branches (Bellingham, Everett, Foothills, Kitsap, Olympia, Seattle, and Tacoma), three lodges (Baker, Meany, and Stevens), and our Kitsap Forest Theater. Tax ID: 27-3009280. 7700 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115.
