Today we would like to highlight a dedicated steward of WTMC! Steve Rugh has been a huge help towards WTMC and our efforts. Steve now serves on our Leadership Team and leads all of our guided hikes. As a well seasoned hiker of Arizona, Steve recognizes the beauty of being able to spend time outdoors in a healthy environment. The park trails are a priceless resource in our community, as they provide a peaceful atmosphere for us all to enjoy. In addition, the educational opportunities provided in both parks, along with group activities that promote preservation, are great ways to encourage the public to care for our desert.
Steve and his wife moved to Arizona in 2011 and have been actively hiking for many years, so they were thrilled to continue their hiking adventures. After moving to Arizona, it wasn’t long before he learned about White Tank Mountains Conservancy and our efforts to protect the mountains, through meeting Former Buckeye Mayor Jackie Meck. He then became a member of the Community Services Advisory Board and found himself becoming more interested in being involved in WTMC, primarily due to Mayor Meck’s passion.
Once becoming a steward, Steve says he has had many wonderful experiences being part of the Conservancy, from walking the trails, to meeting and getting to know the Rangers at White Tank Mountain Regional Park, as well as Park Supervisors and employees from Buckeye. He has been able to lead families on private hikes, direct hikers back to their vehicles safely, and participate in events like our Youth to Mountains program, where he spends time on the trail with hundreds of young students, showing them the awesome treasure that is the White Tank Mountains.
Steve believes one of the biggest benefits of serving as a steward is what you can learn about living in our world. For example, he was able to assist the County Rangers get a person suffering from heat stroke safely back to their vehicle, while a friend was able to take them to the ER. Learning about the signs of heat stroke and the steps to take, especially for hiking in Arizona summers, is crucial to keeping yourself and others safe. Moments like this have been monumental for Steve and how he views our individual impact as members of a larger society.
As a volunteer in more than one organization, Steve’s advice is to join a volunteering group you enjoy and/or believe in. Volunteering should be something you are passionate about! Otherwise, it may not feel as rewarding and could lead to complacency and routine. Life is a lot more fun if you do something that makes you feel like you are making a difference and accomplishing a goal.
He emphasizes that being a volunteer for the Conservancy does not mean you have to hike 20 miles a day, or even 1 mile. There are many ways to be involved in our outreach programs, such as the Youth to Mountains program mentioned above. There are always different positions vital to our ongoing success!
Interested in volunteering?
