Why she joined
Lisa Barboza joined the Loma Prieta Chapter of the Sierra Club after witnessing at first hand the effects of climate change on the environment. In 2005, she visited a small glacierette below Birch Mountain, in the eastern Sierra, which was melting. In 2016, on a second visit, she noticed that the glacierette had completely melted away to a forlorn pile of rock. Seeing climate change in the flesh, she became more concerned, which prompted her to focus on climate change mitigation in the Sierra Club. For the past 20 years, Lisa has climbed thousands of peaks around the world, as well as in the Sierra Nevada, finishing the Sierra Peak Section List of 247 peaks in 2014. At the time that she completed the SPS list, only 74 individuals worldwide, of whom only 4 were women, were finishers. Lisa hopes to have a positive impact on the environment and set an example for like minded younger individuals.
What she has gained from volunteering
Lisa has learned about how a single individual is enough to make a change in our community. She wants to inspire others to attempt the things they feel powerless against because she believes that, even if you start with something small, the outcome will bring significant results. In 2018, this concept was implemented when Measure B was put to a referendum. The measure proposed to build million-dollar houses on 200 acres of San Jose's grasslands. Lisa and a group of 120 people went to multiple houses, canvassing and distributing leaflets in an effort to try and stop the construction from happening. When it came down to the vote, the developers were beaten 59% to 41%. She stated that; “You, as a person, can do a lot if you put your mind to it. Everyone has an immense power individually, and all you have to do is learn how to exercise it”
What she has contributed to the chapter
Lisa serves as the Outing Chair for the chapter, conducting training classes, climbing mountains, and along with over 100 co-leaders, has led countless outings, while also serving as a member of the Executive Committee and holding the role of the vice chair of the Guadalupe regional group. In 2019, These 600 outings touched the hearts of 6,000 people, and allowed Lisa to share her love and knowledge of natural wonders with other hikers. Lisa hopes to share the botany and biomes with her fellow hikers with the purpose of spreading environmental awareness. Through her dedication, Lisa feels that she can further encourage others to follow in her footsteps.
What she would advise others
On a daily basis, Lisa abides by four simple ideas: be kind, listen to others, be humble, and lastly, do not be afraid to be yourself. Although these principles may appear straightforward, consistently implementing them in your life can be challenging. “By following these four rules, it can bring you a greater sense of happiness” Lisa states, as her ultimate objective is to bring joy into our community.