![[Image Description: Two MCC members are walking away on a rocky trail, carrying their packs, surrounded by burnt orange bushes. Through the haze in the background, there are a multitude of mountains, overlapping one another.]](https://cdn.firespring.com/images/7ba12407-5e3a-41c1-b4b4-f00aac9d37a1.jpg)
Since graduating from college in 2021, I’ve spent time thru-hiking, traveling, and working various outdoor jobs. But, when I returned home to Georgia this past summer I was unsure of what to do next. I just knew that I needed to find a sense of purpose.
Shortly after, I discovered MCC and applied to be a fall (Aug-Oct) crew member. As I met with the other new fall members and staff and we prepared for the next two and a half months of work, I was excited to challenge myself, meet new people, experience the state, and give back to the trail community that I’ve been a part of for so many years.
I joined an incredible crew, and we ventured to Idaho for our first two 9-day hitches. The work involved extensive trail maintenance: re-treading paths, building rock structures to prevent erosion, and clearing brush from the trails. It felt fulfilling to help the trails remain sustainable and stand up to use for years to come. I had a fantastic time connecting with crew members while gaining valuable hands-on experience. It also felt great to embrace the thru-hiker/backpacker lifestyle again.
For my next two hitches, we worked on trails near Helena, but this time we used chainsaws instead of hand tools. Initially, I was nervous about using a dangerous tool like a chainsaw. But, after training and some practice, I discovered a newfound passion for it. We spent eighteen days using the chainsaws to clear fallen logs from trails. Since the trails are so close to the Helena community, they get a lot of use. Our work ensured that hikers can continue to safely access these beautiful areas. As I grew comfortable using the chainsaw, I was inspired to continue trying new things that challenged me.
My fifth and final hitch with MCC focused on planting native plants in a prairie right outside Helena, owned by the Prickly Pear Land Trust. In just a few days, my crew and I planted more than 2,000 grasses and trees. These plants will hopefully play a role in combating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, stabilizing soil, and enhancing biodiversity. It felt special to know our work contributed to climate resilience, and I was proud to be part of something that could make a positive impact on our community and our future.
Overall, my time with the MCC was powerful and impactful. I was surrounded by a fun and welcoming community of young people, learning and experiencing so much alongside each other. The work we did felt purposeful. Knowing that it would positively affect not just those who hike or bike on the trails, but also help the environment as a whole, it gave me a sense of pride in my accomplishments.
My time in Montana is over for now. I’ll be spending the upcoming winter working as a ski lift operator in Colorado and snowboarding as much as possible. I’m taking life one step at a time, and while I’m unsure what I’ll do after this winter, I know that my experience with MCC has left a lasting impression. I now have a greater sense of confidence in my ability to overcome challenges. I’ve also realized that although I love working outside, without a sense of purpose in my work, I struggle to connect to it and truly find fulfillment. Through my service with MCC, I’ve discovered that my purpose is to make a positive impact on the planet and its inhabitants. Whatever job I take on next, I’m committed to being guided by this. I’ve been blessed with so much, and now it’s time for me to continue to give back.
