Interviewed by Roxana Lucero, Land Stewardship Associate
About Jerry
How long have you lived in the Bay Area?
I have lived in the Bay Area off and on since 1986.
How did you learn about Save Mount Diablo?
I had heard of Save Mount Diablo long before I started volunteering, but I don’t recall how.
What did you do before you started volunteering for us?
I worked for Chevron for 33 years.
How long have you been volunteering with us?
Since 2015.
What were your reasons for getting involved with SMD?
I love parks and open spaces, and I like that SMD is working to expand them.
About Jerry’s Work
Which SMD programs are you involved in?
I am a property steward for Young Canyon, and I also help in the twice-a-month stewardship workdays.
What does your volunteer work consist of and what do you like about it?
As a property steward, I walk the property once a month and look for any issues that have arisen, such as trespassing or erosion, and submit a report each month to SMD. I enjoy seeing the changes at Young Canyon as the seasons change.
On the stewardship workdays, I work with other volunteers and SMD staff to perform a variety of tasks on one of the SMD properties. After 33 years of working in an office, I enjoy getting my hands dirty and doing physical labor and working with a great group of volunteers.
What is the most challenging project you’ve worked on while volunteering?
Some of the stewardship workdays can be physically challenging, but it is always enjoyable.
What is an especially memorable experience you’ve had as an SMD volunteer?
My quiet walks alone at Young Canyon have provided many memorable experiences, such as getting to see bobcats, rattlesnakes, owls, and other wildlife.
Join Our Volunteer Crew! We Depend on You!
Given limited staff, resources, and time, Save Mount Diablo depends on volunteers to take organizational effectiveness from excellent to exceptional. Save Mount Diablo seeks to connect a passionate community to our mission, cultivating a sense of ownership and proficiency in every volunteer position offered. Whether you want to help with restoration and stewardship, build and maintain trails, help with events, assist in the office, lead hikes, or advocate for us, there’s a place for you. For more information, check out Save Mount Diablo’s volunteer opportunities.
