We are thrilled to announce a new addition to the HIKE for Mental Health all-volunteer team. Julie Baskerville will be sharing her great organizational and people skills with us in a variety of ways this year. For example, she is working now on a survey of past years’ hikers to help us gauge how we are doing in designing and running our hikes.

A life-long resident of the Grand Rapids, Michigan area, Julie offered to volunteer because of her love for the outdoors and desire to make a difference for people suffering with mental health problems. She is an avid backpacker, kayaker, traveler and explorer of anywhere that proves to be a challenge. She is involved with an expedition team that does training in bush-craft, expedition, search and rescue and survival in extreme climates and conditions. “We take our training a step further with expeditions that test our skills many times a year,” she says.

“I am very excited to be joining in volunteering with HIKE for Mental Health,” writes Julie. “I hope that my efforts will be a valuable asset for the organization! I can’t wait to get to know all you and work alongside you!”

We are thrilled to have you on the team, Julie. Welcome aboard!