From dedicated Volunteer to Program Facilitator, Steph’s journey at Power To Be has been one of growth. Joining the volunteer team in 2018, Steph threw herself into the world of adaptive recreation, eager to learn how best to support individuals with barriers, whilst combining her passion for nature-based adventures. From the get-go, Steph demonstrated an aptitude for uplifting participants and staff alike and an enthusiasm to share her wealth of fascinating nature facts (they are many!).

Steph has an education in Speech Sciences from UBC and experience supporting youth as a Behavioral Interventionist. Inspired by her time volunteering with Power To Be, Steph became a volunteer coach with the BC Para-Nordic Ski Team with Nordic Racers based out of Vancouver. Having a diverse background supporting individuals in their personal and outdoor pursuits, she quickly became an integral part of our team. Steph naturally stepped into the role of a Program Facilitator last summer and has since taken on coordinating Vancouver’s volunteers and their program experience. One might say, she has come full circle!

As an avid outdoorswoman, Steph can be found trail running in the North Shore mountains, climbing some gnarly rockfaces, or shredding dirt on her newly acquired mountain bike. Whatever the activity, Steph’s enthusiasm is present and contagious. Though her passions for the outdoors are a constant source of inspiration, folks may not know that Steph has an unrivaled passion for snacking. Her favorite trail snack is a pre-made mixture of mini peanut butter cups, popcorn, and pretzels. Bonus: Steph loves to share.

Much like the Trembling Aspen tree, whose root systems are intricately designed to foster resiliency and knowledge-sharing, our community has benefited from Steph’s dedication to providing a safe and educational space to grow and play.

We are lucky to have you on the team, Steph!

 

This blog was written by Andrea MacDonald, Power To Be’s Program Adventures Lead. Andrea finds inspiration in connecting people with the natural world and knows the value of dreaming big to see what is possible.