Conservation Alliance Ambassadors are the next generation of key influencers and leaders in the outdoor industry, they care passionately about protecting the wild places we play, and they serve as a conduit for spreading the word about Conservation Alliance programs and grantee activities within their respective companies.
Conservation Alliance Ambassadors volunteer their time, going above and beyond the duties of their full-time jobs at member companies. Our ambassadors are passionate outdoor enthusiasts, and exceptional people. We are excited to introduce them to you over the next few months. To kick off the series, we’d like you to meet Vince Mazzuca from Ruffwear:
What made you want to be an Ambassador for The Conservation Alliance?
The results and the people. I have worked for member companies since starting my career in the Outdoor Industry and have always been in awe of the direct impact that the grant funds have on regional conservation initiatives.
As for the people, the staff and volunteers associated with The Conservation Alliance are the best.
Where would you like to see The Alliance in another 25 years from now? 
I would love to see The Alliance become a household name, recognized by the consumer and trade alike across multiple industries. Within the outdoor industry, we are pretty familiar with The Conservation Alliance, but the importance of conservation is not limited to our industry. We all benefit from the work that the Alliance and grantees are accomplishing.
What areas of conservation are you most passionate about?
Preservation and access. Preservation is so important for keeping our wild places wild. At the same time, access is just as important. People find their connection to our wild places by experiencing them. Without personal connection, it is easy for people to be complacent with conservation issues. I, personally, would not have the connection that I have without having spent nights in alpine meadows under the stars.
Favorite outdoor activity?
If I only have the choice of one activity, it is climbing. I like all types of climbing, but am most inspired by long days in the mountains on alpine routes.
Favorite Wilderness or national park?
I don’t think this can truly be answered. I have been to some amazing wild places, but the diversity of these places makes them impossible to compare against each other. I have fond memories of climbing trips to the Eastern Sierras, the Adirondacks, the Northern Cascades and all over the south east.
What is a recent book you read that you recommend?
I am actually currently reading a book about the start of the Best Friends Animal Society Animal Sanctuary in Southern Utah, nestled next to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. It is a pretty incredible story of a band of friends coming together to purchase 3,000 acres of wildspace to set up the world’s largest no-kill sanctuary for all kinds of animals. I spent at week at the Sanctuary recently as was blown away by the work they are doing to improve the lives of homeless animals, train them and find them a new home. “Best Friends: The True Story of the World’s Most Beloved Animal Sanctuary” by Samantha Glen.
End Quote: Words of motivation to get others inspired.
Get involved! There are many ways to get involved with The Conservation Alliance. We are always looking for new Ambassadors and folks willing to provide a little assistance with regional events like Backyard Collectives and Wild Drinks, as well as events at trade shows like Outdoor Retailer. It’s fun, it makes a difference and the people are awesome.
Ambassador Profile: Vince Mazzuca, Marketing Manager, Ruffwear
