Why do I do it?

It has been brought to my attention by one mister Martin Pribble (aka @martinpribble) and a few other people that I am busy. Really busy, maybe too busy. As of late my life has been filled up with preparing for the Duathlon in May but more importantly I have been working on Gear and Cheer. This will be my third year involved with the event and my first year as official Event Chair and liaison for The Women's Wilderness Institute's Board of Directors.

If you're unfamiliar with the event it is an amazing silent auction in the Boulder that raises money for the Girl's Programs and Trauma Survivor Programs of The Women's Wilderness Institute. The money raised allows for scholarships and financial aid to those who may otherwise miss out on these opportunities at confidence and strength building.

Last year when I wrote about Gear and Cheer and TWWI I focused on how their unique teaching style truly appeals to women and girls by teaching in a challenging yet nurturing environment. I am thrilled to have learned to climb with the organization but it wasn't until I joined the Board that I discovered something amazing that came from the courses. I was empowered after my time in TWWI programs. After learning to climb I was able to go off on my own and climb some more. I knew when to seek more help to advance but also I have the foundation to go on my own.

The TWWI mission is this:

The Women's Wilderness Institute (TWWI) is a nonprofit organization with the mission of strengthening the courage, confidence, and leadership qualities of girls and women, through the support and challenge of wilderness- and community-based experiences.

After reflecting on this statement and all that I have taken away I am so proud to be on the Board and continuing to make this mission a reality. If other women and girls have an experience as amazing as mine then I know we're doing something right. So this is why I do it. This is why I stay busy. When something helps you transform your life you want to share it with others and keep it alive.

If you're in the Boulder/Denver area I invite you to join us at our Carnivale-themed Gear and Cheer on March 27 at The Spot in Boulder. Early bird tickets are only $30 and include food and beverage sampling, entertainment, and an opportunity to bid on some amazing gear and merchandise.

If you're interested in our programs visit the website for more details or request a catalog by contacting Lori Mathews at 303.938.9191.

Gear and Cheer is around the corner

I have been climbing for about two years now. After my first course with the Women's Wilderness Institute I was hooked. I often wonder if I hadn't learned with their amazing instructors on a perfect day in Boulder Canyon, would I be climbing and drooling over gear today?

Hopefully the answer would be yes, but I know in my heart that something is just different about WWI. This amazing non-profit organization has really perfected the learning experience for women (and girls). They know how to speak to women of all ages, help them find their inner strength, and create an amazing environment that is so magical and rare.

That's why I am now a volunteer with WWI, focusing on the annual Gear and Cheer Silent and Live Auction. If you're in the Boulder/Denver area, mark April 23 on your calendar. The event is held at Rembrandt Yard in Boulder and will have amazing entertainment, wonderful auction items, and is a chance to mingle with other outdoor enthusiasts.

We're always looking for new volunteers and sponsors for the event. If you have time to give contact Lori Mathews, Volunteer Coordinator, at 303-938-9191. If you would like to contribute to the auction we're always looking for gear as well as unique items such as clothing, jewelry, or other goodies. It's a great way to generate publicity for your business as well as give back to a great cause.

Artopia anyone?

Last year I had the opportunity to work Westword's Artopia. It's an amazing event in Denver featuring music, food, fashion and art. It's a great way to see what's going on in the community.

Last year the venue I managed had amazing variety from Burlesque to Poetry to Aerial Dance. I am excited to be there again because this promises to be another amazing event!

Come check it out Saturday night! Tickets include complimentary food and liquor sampling and can be purchased for $30 in advance or $35 at the door and can be purchased here.