North Cascades Institute Interview
The North Cascades Institute is a non-profit organization located in North Cascades National Park, that encourages exploration and education in the outside world. The institute works to engage students in the natural world by utilizing outdoor activities such as hiking and canoeing. The immersive experience they provide is unmatched. Their goal is “to help people of all ages experience and enjoy the mountains, rivers, forest, people, and wildlife of the Pacific Northwest – so all will care for and protect this special place.” Visit the institute’s website to learn more about group classes and activities.
As with many of our map partnerships, we donate a portion of map sales back to the non-profit organization that the map is associated with. A percentage of sales from our North Cascades National Park map has been donated back to the North Cascades Institute in the amount of $1849.57.
In March of this year, we were lucky to sit down with the retail Manager and Finance Director of the North Cascades Institute to discuss their organization and the impact of Xplorer Maps products in their retail stores throughout the National Park. Read our interview with Pat Renau below.
XM: Please provide us with a brief history and mission of your organization:
Pat Renau: The institute came to be in 1986 as part of a three-way partnership with the North Cascades National Park and Seattle City Lights. The North Cascades Institute is located on the banks of Diablo Lake, which is a reservoir that provides power for the Seattle City Lights company. The institute's mission is to “inspire environmental stewardship through transformative learning experiences in nature.”
XM: How did you first discover and/or hear about Xplorer Maps? How has the relationship grown?
Pat Renau: We first met Xplorer Maps at a Public Lands Alliance trade show, where they brought up the initial idea of the map of North Cascades. It then took a year and a half of collaboration to put this map together.
XM: What makes the Xplorer Maps line unique and successful for your organization? What stands out?
Pat Renau: The uniqueness of the map stands out and is constructed in an artistic and personal manner. The products are distinctive pieces that tell the public that they can’t get this anywhere else.
XM: Please briefly share any feedback you get from your visitors/customers pertaining to the Xplorer Maps brand.
Pat Renau: We have been told multiple times that our stores are some of the nicest in the country. And we’re proud that Xplorer Maps products are prominently displayed in each location.
XM: Please briefly comment on the customer service you receive from Xplorer Maps.
Pat Renau: Kevin Haveron has done a great job communicating how much and when things will be available. He’s a logistics master and is a very influential contact.
XM: Anything else you think folks might find interesting about Xplorer Maps?
Pat Renau: It’s nice to be a partner with a company like yours that continues to expand new parks and areas into your portfolio. The progressive nature that you exemplify is unmatched.
