Volunteer Spotlight – Krista Jensen (AB)
CEC: Hi Krista. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in the climbing community?
Krista Jensen (KJ): Hi There, My name is Krista Jensen, and I am from Calgary, Alberta. Our son climbs with the Bolder High Performance Team (I really appreciate the witty word play!). Whenever I attend climbing comps, I am always grateful for all the people who make these opportunities available for our athletes. So, while I do not know a lot about climbing, I wanted to find ways to give back – volunteering is such a simple and rewarding way and creates a connection and sense of belonging within this community.
CEC: Can you share a memorable moment or highlight from your time volunteering in the climbing community?
KJ: Because I love clipboards, Sharpies and colour-coordinating things with all the tape, I spend a lot of my volunteering time in Transition Areas and ISO. While I cannot think of one specific memorable time, I am always struck by the faith and kindness the athletes and coaches put in those of us in these roles. We get to see athletes before climbs, in between boulders, and then when they come back to sit after they are done. If they can count on us, then they can focus on what they have come to do: their best, whatever that is on that day. More than a single highlight, I suppose it is an overall sense of gratitude for the trust and appreciation so many of the athletes take the time to share with the volunteers in these roles.
CEC: In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing the climbing community today, and how can volunteers help address them?
KJ: I am on the periphery of the climbing community; because of this, I do not really know the biggest challenges currently being faced. But what I do know is that finding enough volunteers should not be the challenge it sometimes is. Communities work on reciprocity, and volunteering is a fun way to say “thanks for providing this opportunity to our kids!”. When the climbing competition officials have enough volunteers signed up ahead of time, (and enough experienced volunteers to support the newer volunteers), then they can focus on the technical aspects of the comp, and our athletes benefit.
CEC: What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering in the climbing community for the first time?
KJ: One of the potential drawbacks is having to volunteer when your own kid is climbing, and therefore missing their climbs. If this reason keeps you from volunteering, consider buddying up with another parent from your club, and finding a role (ISO!) where you can trade off to ensure you are able to watch and cheer for your climber, while still supporting the competition and getting to know others within the climbing community.
CEC: If you could have one superpower to make volunteering easier (or more fun), what would it be and why?
KJ: A magical Portkey to get athletes through the crowds and to their climbs instantly.
CEC: Thank you Krista for speaking with us, and for your commitment to our community!
