Active SWV is excited to announce our November Community Captain of the month, Stan!
Stan began programming with Active SWV this year, leading hikes in partnership with the New River Gorge National River through the Get Active in the Park program. You can join Stan on his upcoming hike on November 27th for the #OptOutside event on the Endless Wall Trail. Join the Facebook event here!
Tell us about yourself, where are you from?
‘My name is Stan. I’m a retired chemist and former member of the Navy. I recently retired and married a wonderful woman from the area. We decided to stay and, to pass the time, I became a volunteer with the National Parks Service.’
What motivated you to volunteer with Active SWV in your community?
‘I already volunteer a fair bit with the National Parks Service. As a guide at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center in the New River Gorge National River, I spend a lot of time on the trails. I figured a fun way to get people involved would be to take them on light hikes throughout the park!’
How do you stay motivated? Why is being active a priority for you?
‘I’m a tad on the older side but rather enjoy the outdoors. I had a unique opportunity to see a lot of the world during my working life and, once everything slowed down, I needed to find a suitable outlet. I found a passion for the National Parks and fell for the majestic scenery of southern West Virginia.’
Why do you think someone should join an Active SWV free program?
‘I think Active provides a means to physical activity that a lot of places just don’t. Plus it’s free! Besides, the ability to just go out and see the landscape while walking with friends, new or old, makes for a great time.’
