Meet Kim
How long have you lived in the Bay Area?
Since 2003.
How did you learn about Save Mount Diablo?
As a Board member of the East Bay Leadership Council and resident of Clayton.
When did you start volunteering with us and why did you get involved?
I began volunteering in 2018 when Executive Director Ted Clement asked me to join the Moonlight on the Mountain Committee.
I was delighted to get involved because we had moved to Clayton in 2013 and really came to appreciate Mount Diablo State Park and all the efforts of land conservation and preservation spearheaded by Save Mount Diablo.
Which Save Mount Diablo programs are you involved in?
I am a member of both the Moonlight on the Mountain Committee and the Development Committee. Last year, along with Liz Harvey Roberts, I co-chaired Save Mount Diablo’s year-long 50th anniversary events.
What do you enjoy about the volunteer work you do?
It is always so rewarding to know that whatever small amount of your time you are devoting to Save Mount Diablo and its efforts, it pays off in preserving and increasing the footprint of the Diablo Range for now and future generations.
What is the most challenging project you’ve worked on as a Save Mount Diablo volunteer?
I would probably say my very first Moonlight on the Mountain in 2018.
I wanted to completely immerse myself in the process from start to finish and so I attended all planning meetings, volunteered to help with set up, and then volunteered as a greeter at the event itself.
It was an amazing experience, and I have not missed a Moonlight on the Mountain since.
Is there a memorable experience you’ve had as a Save Mount Diablo volunteer?
For me it’s about getting to know the staff and developing meaningful relationships with my fellow volunteers.
I have friendships with several fellow volunteers outside of the work we do with Save Mount Diablo.
Volunteering has also allowed me to invite friends of mine from outside the volunteer circle to come enjoy our events like Forever Wild and Moonlight.
In fact, last year, my parents flew in from New York, just to attend our 50th anniversary and enjoy Moonlight on the Mountain. The experience was priceless.
How do you spend your time beyond your volunteer work with us?
I am an avid bird watcher and hiker, and I have spent endless hours on and around Mount Diablo, from top to bottom, exploring flora and fauna, waterfalls and vistas.
I also have been taking photos of the mountain, in particular locations, at every season and I am always amazed by how beautiful and striking our landscape is from season to season.
I remember seeing my first fire rainbow over Mount Diablo and was able to hold a tarantula from the Mitchell Canyon Visitor’s Center in my hands many years ago.
The diversity on our mountain is extraordinary, including wildlife and flowers that can only be seen here including the globe lilies or fairy lantern flowers, one of my favorites.
I also want to thank the staff and all of the passionate volunteers at Save Mount Diablo for all they do to preserve and care for the Diablo Range.
It’s because of all of our hard work and dedication that the protection of this range continues to expand now and for generations to come. It makes me very proud to be a part of this incredible organization and give back in some small way.
The photo of me is at Mitchell Canyon Visitor’s Center, holding the tarantula that I named in a naming contest years ago—I called her “Hairy-ette.”
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.
