LEADERSHIP PROGRAM |
WWO events are made possible by a talented and committed team of numerous volunteers. While volunteer office staff, Committee Chairs (who lead the program areas) and executive board members all play an important role, our Trip and Event Leaders are the backbone of WWO. In order to provide or even expand the number and types of events WWO offers, it is extremely important that we maintain a large pool of Leaders.
If you are interested in becoming a leader or want more information, contact us at membership@washingtonwomenoutdoors.org.
Without Trip Leaders, we wouldn’t go anywhere!
Enthusiasm for the outdoors and wilderness skills are only the beginning. It takes organization and perseverance to take an idea from planning stages through trip logistics to boots (or wheels) on the ground.
Leaders facilitate the numerous diverse events that WWO provides its members. All of these Leaders are very special people because they give not only their time and energy, but also their love and spirit. Our Leaders are known to inspire trip participants to embrace a passion for the outdoors and a thrill for adventure. They also provide encouragement and support to those who are less-experienced and may even have some hesitation about joining the activity.
Trip Leaders scout our hiking and biking trips in advance. Each trip is led by two Leaders. One Leader stays at the front of the group and the second Leader is at the back. Each participant is encouraged to participate at her own pace so they enjoy their experience and come back to the outdoors.
The leaders I met on my earliest WWO trips gave me friendly advice and encouragement which helped me develop the skills and confidence to take on more challenging bicycle rides. Along the way, I decided I wanted to give back to WWO, so I became a trip leader. As a leader, I have met amazing and inspiring women of all ages and made wonderful friends.
—Susan G. |
|
How do I become a Trip Leader for WWO? For trips wholly organized and operated by WWO, Trip Leaders are responsible for the entirety of the trip, which includes scheduling, planning, scouting, and finalizing and communicating trip details to participants. During the event, Leaders provide support and encouragement, advise and teach participants about outdoor equipment and outdoor skills, and ensure the trip goes smoothly. After the trip, the Leader provides feedback to the Committee Chair and may share photos for use on social media. Individuals interested in becoming a Trip Leader must: 1. Attend at least one WWO event as a member and maintain an active membership in WWO. Attend at least one of four Board of Directors Meeting annually. 2. Be approved by the appropriate Committee Chair to be a Leader-in-Training and participate in at least two trips as a Leader-in-Training. 3. Complete and maintain First Aid and CPR certification. 4. Receive approval by the appropriate Committee Chair to be an Assistant Leader and assist on at least two WWO trips. 5. Complete WWO Leadership Training at least once every three years. 6. Be approved by the appropriate Committee Chair to be a Leader.
| How do I become a Leader for Outfitter Events? WWO also conducts events that are provided in partnership with outfitter organizations and businesses. For these outfitter events, Leaders serve as the liaison between the Outfitter, WWO and trip participants. The Event Leaders coordinate trip logistics with the Outfitter, finalize and communicate the details, provide leadership support during the event and provide feedback to the Committee Chair after the event. Individuals interested in becoming a Leader for outfitter events must: 1. Attend at least one Outfitter WWO event as a member and maintain an active membership in WWO. Attend at least one of four Board of Directors Meeting annually. 2. Be approved by the appropriate Program Chair. 3. Complete and maintain First Aid and CPR certification. 4. Complete WWO Leadership Training at least once every three years. |
What are the benefits of becoming a WWO Trip Leader?
Access to Leadership Training FundsWWO reimburses each Leader up to $100 per year in leadership training expenses, including First Aid and CPR. To be eligible for reimbursement, a Leader must lead or assist on at least two trips within a year. • For up to $50 reimbursement, a Leader must lead two trips. |
Free and Discounted TripsLeaders and assistants are not required to pay trip fees. For Outfitter events, Leaders may pay a discounted leader fee for their planning and leading efforts. |
Develop SkillsDevelop confidence and competence in outdoor skills, as well as a sense of empowerment and leadership skills. |
Make friendsAn opportunity for camaraderie with other women who have a love for the outdoors and the development of friendships. Share outdoor adventures with women you meet in addition to those offered by WWO. |
Accident InsuranceWWO carries an accidental injury insurance policy for leaders that pays medical benefits in excess of any primary coverage for covered expenses that result directly from injury caused by a covered accident. |
RECEIVING FIRST AID AND CPR TRAINING
WWO leaders must be certified in Adult First Aid and CPR. Many organizations including the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association offer First Aid and CPR training. All or a portion of the cost of the courses is reimbursable after you have led or assisted on at least two WWO trips. |
|
WASHINGTON WOMEN OUTDOORS LEADERSHIP TRAINING
WWO holds formal and informal Leadership Training free-of-charge for Leaders and Leaders-in-Training. Our training covers all aspects of being a Leader for WWO, from planning and preparing an event, conducting the event, to follow-up afterwards. |
|
