Meet Ashley
How long have you lived in the Bay Area?
I have lived in the Bay Area for most of my life! I have lived in different parts of the Bay, but have spent most of my life in Brentwood. I like living close to Mount Diablo and have spent most of my childhood exploring the park.
How did you learn about Save Mount Diablo?
I found Save Mount Diablo online while looking for habitat restoration in the East Bay.
When did you start volunteering with us and why did you get involved?
I started volunteering in January of 2022! I wanted to find a way to help the environment in my community through volunteering. I have been supporting Save Mount Diablo ever since.
Which Save Mount Diablo programs are you involved in?
I am a DiRT day volunteer!
What do you enjoy about the volunteer work you do?
I enjoy spending time outdoors. My favorite part of volunteering is working alongside the other volunteers and making a difference in Mount Diablo. I love how teamwork brings together everyone to care for the environment.
The habitats and native plants of Diablo are fascinating to learn about. I love the time I get to spend volunteering because many of the native plants get by with a little help from all of us. It is exciting when we get to see wildlife and little creatures.
What is the most challenging project you’ve worked on as a Save Mount Diablo volunteer?
The most challenging project I have worked on is weeding and mulching the trail at Big Bend. It was very satisfying to complete the entire trail. I hope many people in the future will enjoy the trail!
Is there a memorable experience you’ve had as a Save Mount Diablo volunteer?
I have loved every time I have gotten to volunteer with Save Mount Diablo. One of my favorite memories was the first time I volunteered. We got to take care of young native plants at Big Bend.
I remember crossing the telephone pole bridge over Marsh Creek. There were a golden eagle and red-tailed hawks flying overhead as we worked.
How do you spend your time beyond your volunteer work with us?
I am currently a geology student at Cal State East Bay in Hayward. I love learning about the earth’s geologic history. I work as a student assistant in the Geology Department.
I spend most of my time assisting professors, creating exhibits, organizing our specimen collection, and joining students on field trips!
Recently, I have restarted the Earth and Environmental Sciences Club with the help of my friends. We go on hiking, camping, and fishing trips together! I love getting to explore the Bay Area with them and use every trip as an opportunity to make fun memories.
This summer I will be interning with the USGS! Outside of school and work I love to hike, play the guitar, and draw.
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.
