SierraScape December 2003 - January 2004
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by Liz Connolly

Bryan and Liz at the ICO conference in Alta, Utah in August 2003

Crunching through the fallen leaves, tromping across old wooden bridges, and discovering tiny aquatic creatures in the creek are experiences that delight the children and adult volunteers who lead trips through the Sierra Club's Inner City Outings program. The St. Louis ICO group had a great time participating in the Chapter Campout in October. ICO leaders accompanied six girls ages 7-10 who live in Karen House, which is a Catholic Worker house that provides shelter for women and their children in north St. Louis.

The St. Louis ICO group is energized and growing! In the past year and a half, the St. Louis ICO group has gained four new volunteers who soon will all become certified. Liz Connolly, who has been a Sierra Club member since she was 16, is currently serving as group Chair. She grew up in the outdoors-climbing trees, helping in the garden, and learning nature skills through Girl Scouting. Now Liz is thrilled to be involved with ICO and to help kids appreciate nature and develop their own nature and leadership skills. ICO is fortunate to have Bryan Himmelsbach as co-chair. He brings to the group an entrepreneurial spirit and love of the outdoors. Originally from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Bryan has been backpacking with his father in upstate New York since he was eight years old. When he was a Washington University student, Bryan spent a lot of time volunteering with Mentor St. Louis and other programs. As an ICO volunteer, he has been able to integrate service with his love for the outdoors. Liz and Bryan attended the national ICO conference in Alta, Utah this past August. They learned new environmental ed. games and safety skills and brought back ideas about how to strengthen and get the word out about St. Louis Inner City Outings.

New volunteers are always welcome. Please contact Liz (connoll@aol.com) or Bryan (bfhimmel@yahoo.com) to get involved.