Volunteer Spotlight: Eric Steinbring

Eric Steinbring has been an incredible asset to Venture Outdoors.  He’s one of our longer standing volunteers who has not only led tons of fun trips, but he also teaches other volunteers to lead. As a critical care nurse, Eric has generously shared his medical expertise by providing First Aid, CPR, and Wilderness First Aid training to hundreds of Venture Outdoors volunteers and staff. Not to mention, he’s always a calming and kind presence to have both on the trails and in the office. We’re so grateful for you, Eric!

Get to know Eric Steinbring

When and why did you start volunteering with Venture Outdoors?   

My first outing with Venture Outdoors was in July 2012.  I found Venture Outdoors on the internet while looking for groups with similar interests and signed up for a bike ride on the GAP from Ohiopyle to Confluence.  When I returned home, my wife asked how I liked it.  I told her it was great and that I met 12 other people who loved being outdoors just like I do.  She told me to call the office the next day and ask them if I could help by being a leader.  I did and led 7 outings the following year.

What has been your most memorable trip?  

I used to plan a bike ride from Meyersdale to Frostburg on the GAP.  We would visit the sites along the way, and I timed everything to arrive in Frostburg just as the steam locomotive from Cumberland was rolling it.  While eating lunch, we could watch the turnstile turn the engine around for its trip back to Cumberland.  Someone from the office attended and gave me a spoof award later at one of the leader recognition gatherings that fall.  I still have it.

What is your favorite thing about volunteering as a trip leader?  

I love introducing people to the outdoors, especially the Laurel Highlands.  I enjoy teaching outdoor skills to individuals who want to try something new in the wilderness.  I think many want to get outside of their comfort zone and try something new but just don’t know where to go or who to ask.

Eric teaches our staff and volunteers how to perform CPR.

What advice do you have to share with new volunteer trip leaders?    

I spend a lot of time prepping for an activity.  A lot of time.
Remember KISMIF. Keep It Simple, Make it Fun.
Everyone likes to try something new, participate together and succeed.
Plan your activity with these in mind and you can’t go wrong.

Where is your favorite place to get outdoors in Western PA?  

I love Ohiopyle State Park.  I usually visit there 2-3 times a month throughout the year. My dogs and I hike there often.  They know the trails by heart.  The GAP is there and usually organize my “Dam Ride” which includes a bike ride across the breast of the Yough Dam. I try to raft the rapids of the Lower Yough at least once a year and offer a Pedal/Paddle event on the Middle Yough. I also snowshoe there in the winter.

Anything else you’d like to share about yourself?  

I live in Johnstown, probably making me the volunteer living the furthest away from the office. Bike camping is one of my favorite activities and have led self-supported bike rides to D.C. many times. I just returned from the Florida Keys (for a second year) after taking my scouts there to be certified in scuba diving. I am trying to relearn playing the banjo.