Interviewed by Haley Sutton, Land Stewardship Associate
Meet Satvik
How long have you lived in the Bay Area?
I have lived in the Bay Area my entire life.
How did you learn about Save Mount Diablo?
Through my friends who have previously volunteered with Save Mount Diablo.
When did you start volunteering with us, and why did you get involved?
I started volunteering with Save Mount Diablo during the summer of 2021. I decided to get involved because I had been hiking in the Mount Diablo region a lot during the past years and I was wondering if there was anything I could do to help preserve the area and make it more enjoyable for other visitors.
Which Save Mount Diablo programs are you involved in?
I completed my Eagle Scout project at the Mangini Ranch Educational Preserve. It consisted of building and installing an ADA-accessible picnic table.
What do you enjoy about the volunteer work you do?
I enjoy getting the chance to meet new people and have fun in the outdoors. I have learned many things from the people I’ve worked with. I get a lot of satisfaction knowing that the work I do will help preserve the region so people can continue to enjoy the area in the future the same way I do.
What is the most challenging project you’ve worked on as a Save Mount Diablo volunteer?
The most challenging project I’ve worked on was my Eagle project where we were building and installing a picnic table at Mangini Ranch. It was very hard digging to install the posts because we had to dig really deep, and the ground was hard. It was also a big challenge to get all the wood planks to properly line up when assembling the table. In the end the table turned out great, and it was a rewarding experience.
Is there a memorable experience you’ve had as a Save Mount Diablo volunteer?
A memorable experience I’ve had as a Save Mount Diablo volunteer was after my Eagle project when my crew and I went on a hike in the Mangini Ranch area. We got to explore many parts of the preserve and there were many beautiful views along the hike. It was an enjoyable way to conclude our hard day of working.
How do you spend your time beyond your volunteer work with us?
I spend a lot of time playing cricket, and I am actively involved in my Boy Scout troop. I also enjoy biking, backpacking, camping, swimming, and playing music.
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.
