Washington’s National Park Fund works to fund priority projects in Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks, and we couldn’t do it without our dedicated supporters. Our Trailblazers series celebrates these passionate park lovers and all of the different ways they give back, whether by donating their time or talent, volunteering, fundraising, or something else entirely.
Meet Lisa Drake, our newest staff member at Washington’s National Park Fund! Lisa brings her passion for parks and background in community engagement to her role as Donor Engagement Manager.
We are excited to have her as part of the WNPF team and continue our mission to support Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks!
What are some of your most memorable experiences in Washington’s national parks?
A couple that come to mind are a personal record of sighting 16 bears on a single outing on the High Divide-Seven Lakes Basin Loop at Olympic (we were all enjoying an abundance of blueberries) and blissful crisp and sunny fall days hiking up to the Sunrise area after the road had closed for the season.
What is your favorite thing to do in the parks and do you have a favorite?
Long day hikes are my very favorite, but I also enjoy backpacking and the occasional snowshoe. It feels wrong to choose a favorite, but it would be hard to deny my love for Mount Rainier. My husband and I chose our current home location in large part due to its proximity to Sunrise and before I could view the mountain from my house, I looked for it on every commute and on every flight in and out of town.
What brought you to Washington’s National Park Fund?
Above all, a love for Washington’s national parks. I grew up in this area and feel a strong sense of responsibility to help preserve these incredible places so future generations can enjoy them.
I currently volunteer with a couple of outdoor recreation and conservation groups, and my professional background is in community engagement and nonprofit program management. This role with WNPF felt like the perfect opportunity to bring my passions and experience together in support of a cause I truly believe in.
Can you tell us about your role and what you do?
In short, relationship management! Building and maintaining the connections with our donors and community, keeping them informed of park funding needs and showing the impact that their support has.
What’s your favorite part about your role?
Having conversations with people who care deeply about the parks! There’s nothing more energizing than seeing or hearing someone light up as they talk about what the parks mean to them.
Are there any projects that we raise funds for that you’re especially passionate about?
Supporting volunteer programs at the parks is #1 for me. They expand the capacity of the hard-working and dedicated park staff – something that is crucial given the challenges they often face with limited resources. I am also drawn to projects such as youth engagement programs and meadow restoration that help preserve the park experience for future generations.
Check out this story about the volunteers who help open Tolmie Peak Lookout each season!
Can you share a fun fact about yourself that people might not know about you?
I was married in a national park! Specifically, on Hawksnest Beach, Virgin Islands National Park.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Beyond hiking and backpacking here in Washington, I love to plan my travels around trekking in other parts of the world. I’m especially fond of alpine and arctic tundra environments, bonus points if glacier views are involved. Some of my favorite adventures have been in Iceland, Greenland, and northern Sweden!
We are so grateful for the many Trailblazers who help us achieve our mission. Interested in supporting the parks? There are lots of ways to give. Together, we’ll ensure our parks remain vibrant and everlasting for years to come.