People of Interest

Climbing Higher for a Cause: Meet Trailblazer Kathryn Martini

Meet Trailblazer Kathryn Martini. She is an Amazon employee, four-time Mount Rainier climber, and passionate fundraiser. She wholeheartedly embodies the spirit of this program. Her story is one of courage, community, and a deep commitment to giving back to the parks that inspire us all.

Trailblazer Kevin Bacher: Shaping the Future of Mount Rainier Volunteers

At Mount Rainier, there are many trails — but we think some of the most important pathways are built by people who lead the way for others to follow. Kevin Bacher is one of those people, with 30 years of public service including 23 years leading Mount Rainier’s volunteer program.

Trailblazers: Campaign Coordinator Jess Merchant

Meet Jess Merchant, our newest staff member at Washington’s National Park Fund! Jess brings a background in nonprofit administrative operations and a keen eye for detail to her role as Campaign Coordinator, a position made possible thanks to a grant from our friends at the National Park Foundation.

Paint With Purpose: How Elle Crée Turns Creativity Into Support for Mount Rainier National Park

Discover how a woman-owned art company is turning paint-by-number kits into a force for good. Elle Crée’s Mount Rainier design supports conservation with every purchase — proving creativity, self-care, and caring for parks can beautifully go hand in hand.

Flexible Giving, Lasting Impact: Over the Top Society Takes Projects Over the Finish Line

The Over the Top Society is a dedicated community of park champions who go the extra mile for Washington’s national parks. By joining, your gift of $1,200 annually in unrestricted support helps ensure that critical, high-priority projects get the final push they need to move forward.

Blown Away by Nature: How One Artist Turns Glass into Good

Robert Bank Glass has crafted his glass art into something good. Through a unique partnership with WNPF, his glass leaf pendants are supporting the parks he loves. Learn why he's giving back and how you can buy a one-of-a-kind "Leaf No Trace" pendant.

Thank a Ranger: Notes of Gratitude for Washington’s National Parks

With our Thank a Ranger page, supporters have a chance to say thank you to the dedicated park staff in return.  WNPF is collecting heartfelt messages that we’ll share directly with the rangers, volunteers, maintenance workers, and other staff who help protect Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks.

Trailblazers: Donor Engagement Manager Lisa Drake

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.

Tacoma-Fuji: A Story of Mountains and Connection

As Japanese immigrants arrived in Seattle, many found comfort in Mount Rainier's striking resemblance to Mount Fuji in Japan. Learn about the connection that Japanese immigrants had with Mount Rainier in the late 19th century and how it grew into a formal, first-of-its-kind friendship.