On January 25th and March 1st 2025, the Notch Hostel hosted two Fireside Chats by guest speakers from the SiS board: Mardi Fuller and Kathy Chau Rohn.

In the first chat, Mardi led the audience in an interactive workshop. Ideas and thoughts were openly shared on the subject of deconstructing culture in order to better understand the outdoor community dynamics that negatively impact people from marginalized groups and how to take action going forward.

During Kathy's talk, she shared her experiences from over 5,000 miles of trekking—diving into the rewards, challenges, and lessons from peak bagging to long-distance backpacking. Her insights on inclusivity and language in outdoor spaces and the deeper meaning of every hike left us all inspired.

Before each talk guests and speakers enjoyed a potluck style meal together, and the following morning those who dared joined us in summiting Canon and Pemigewasset, respectively, the following morning.

Solidarity Nights at the Notch Hostel

The Notch Hostel hosts our annual special benefit during our spring season fundraiser. It’s a weekend of meeting the grantee organizations, socializing with other participants, volunteers, and board members, and winning mega prizes from our in-person raffle.

Hey SiS friends! On February 4th and March 11th 2023, the Notch Hostel hosted two Fireside Chats focused on outdoor equity in the White Mountains and beyond.

The first chat gave perspectives from long-distance hikers of color, and the second explored two new programs in the White Mountains that increase outdoors accessibility.

Before each talk guests and speakers enjoyed a potluck style meal together, and the following morning the heartiest members of the group climbed one of our local 4,000-foot mountains for sunrise.