Exciting Opportunities Await You!

I'm feeling very grateful for the volunteers who keep our Western MA AMC Chapter running with a variety of skills, experiences, and perspectives. What do I like most about being a part of it? It just feels good. I'm applying the skills I have to create something and move us forward, so it's fun and helps me grow into my potential as a person. Sound selfish? Maybe, but it's also a big part of why we do anything! And, having been involved with the AMC since 1989 or so, I can't imagine how I would have safely, enjoyably, and knowledgeably made so many outdoor discoveries without it, so giving back is another motivation. And that feels good, too. Want to experience it? Read on for a variety of ways you can join the team that helps Western MA Be Outdoors. Speaking of doing things for yourself, I'm reminding myself, too, when I encourage you to plan ahead and put that leadership training and AMC hut reservation on your calendar - read on for the juicy details! Your outdoor quotient will thank you! Diane Jones, Western MA Chapter Chair

Lend Your Skills to Help People Be Outdoors

Our dynamic Western MA Chapter has key volunteer opportunities in need of your valuable skills, and we'd love to chat with you about them! Our Executive Committee is known for its positive outlook and vibrant collaboration, and we're looking for fellow outdoors enthusiasts with aligned skills and diverse perspectives for accomplishing our goals. Treasurer - Our current Treasurer is excited to transition a committed member with accounting or bookkeeping skills into this important and collaborative role to support our Chapter activities. Membership Chair - Engage with people, appreciate members, and share what we do, all with the support of the Executive Committee. Secretary - Attention to detail and great listening skills? Create meeting minutes, update the roster annually, and team up to produce our Annual Report, showcasing the amazing work of our Chapter. Any of these sound like you or anyone you know? Just drop us a line at info@amc-wma.org to begin the journey and feel the satisfaction of making a difference.

Free Chapter Leadership Skills Training

Would you like to learn how to share your passion for the outdoors with others? We'd like to invite you to a free training to become an activity leader for the Chapter. This one-day training is on Sunday, March 24, 2024 from 8:30 to 4:30 at the Four Rivers Charter School in Greenfield. The training includes:

• Activity planning and management
• Screening of potential participants for an activity
• Risk management & leader liability, including AMC's Leadership Requirements & Guidelines
• Leadership approaches (formerly styles)
• People skills including group dynamics, interpersonal communication, and feedback
• AMC Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and accident scene management
• Leave No Trace & Conservation
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)

For those who wish to become a chapter leader, an additional day of hands-on learning in your chosen activity (paddling, hiking, mountaineering, etc.) will be required. Click here for details, contact information and to register.

Making Memories with AMC Hut Discounts

Parents, we know you're thinking about how to fill summer vacation, even though it's only February. Have you considered bringing your family to the AMC's White Mountain Huts? Backpacking with your kids can be a rewarding experience and create a lifelong love for the outdoors. And it's easier than you think! Check out the AMC Outdoors blog for 7 tips for backpacking with young kids. AMC extended their 30% off youth and child rates at the huts promotion through February 29. Click here to learn more and book - there are no blackout dates! - and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime.