Mid-Winter News

As I became more involved in this organization that captured my heart back in the 80s, my awareness has gone to another dimension about the essential role volunteers fill to help realize AMC's - and the chapter's - mission of Protection, Enjoyment, and Understanding of the outdoors. At the AMC Annual Summit on February 4th, this was illustrated in so many ways through my inspiring conversations with dedicated volunteers, long-time and new, and the volunteer awards that accompanied amazing stories. The Summit also supplied another reminder that AMC is the oldest conservation organization in the country, along with providing the wonderful outdoor recreation opportunities we've enjoyed over the years. During the conservation presentation, my eyes flew open to the extent of the initiatives that the passionate and knowledgeable AMC staff members are creating and executing. I made a commitment right then to join CAN, the Conservation Action Network. The next day, I made just a couple of clicks, and now I'll be presented with actions I can (or CAN!) take and the steps to get there, without having to dig for them. I likely won't be able to do them all, but what a gift to have this all set up for easy and effective action that makes a difference. Here's the link – your gateway to caring for your beloved outdoors even more. Read on to learn about some exciting upcoming events and watch a segment on a local TV station featuring our Chapter. See you outside! Diane Jones, Western MA Chapter Chair

AMC Western MA Featured on Local TV Show

Kristen Sykes, Director of Southern New England Conservation Projects and Partnerships of the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC), joined Patrick Berry, Lifestyle Host of MassAppeal (WWLP TV-22), on January 31st to talk about the 140+ year-old club. In her interview, Sykes mentions Western MA many times, discussing the Appalachian Trail, the New England Trail, Mt. Tom, and other popular hiking spots in our area. Check out her interview.

DEI Webinar February 21, 2023 7-9 PM

Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee is excited to host a webinar this month. Meena Fernald, Director of Programs, City Kids Wilderness Project and Colleen McHugh, Director of Training and Talent Development for City Kids, will be the featured speakers in a webinar entitled Exclusive Spaces: Mitigating the Risk of Racism in Outdoor Spaces on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 7:00-9:00 pm. City Kids Wilderness Project is a non-profit organization founded on the belief that providing enriching life experiences for children can enhance their lives. City Kids continues to develop a holistic approach to reducing the risk of emotional or physical harm to participants and staff through program design, staff training, and incident mitigation and response. This presentation aims to provide a framework and replicable tools for AMC staff and volunteers. City Kids has been presenting on this topic at the Wilderness Risk Management Conference since 2019 and we are thrilled to bring this presentation to the AMC community.

Upcoming Events

Chapter activity leaders are offering events through the winter, so take advantage of their planning and expertise and come along for the adventure! Members will be grabbing their warm layers, strapping on their traction devices, learning skills and immersing in it all with camaraderie, awe, and gratitude. The winter weather prevents paddling and cycling, but we have plenty of hikes, including some wildlife tracking adventures, to join. You can search for options or follow us on Facebook and Instagram for upcoming adventures and events. Come join us on one of our adventures or tag us in yours. #amcwesternmass