Behind the Mission: Pickle Rick

Meet Shea “Pickle Rick” Curtis, our Finance and Operations Coordinator at our headquarters in Denver!  Originally from Loveland, Colorado — just an hour north of our Denver office — Pickle Rick developed a love for the outdoors through years of camping and hiking in the mountains, which led her to pursue a degree in Recreation Management. After spending a gap year serving with AmeriCorps NCCC, she was inspired to build a career in the nonprofit sector, and she’s been helping manage the books with Team FD ever since. Now residing in Golden, Pickle Rick is a true jack-of-all-trades who enjoys a wide range of activities, including skydiving, that keep her connected to both nature and her community.

What is your favorite outdoor activity and why?

Meditating. I just love being in the outdoors listening to the sounds of nature and feeling the breeze.

Favorite part about your job:

The people! Everyone involved in First Descents consistently has a great attitude and is ready to get to work to make our mission happen. From the leadership team to the volunteers and participants, I’ve enjoyed getting to know everyone who helps keep FD running.

Favorite Core Program memory:

While kayaking in the Smoky Mountains, we had multiple days of rain in a row. I expected it to affect morale and lower people’s spirits, but in fact the opposite happened! The whole group was excited, cheering, and even enjoying the rain. I loved seeing the group rally to have a great time no matter the circumstances. Then our final day was gorgeous and sunny, a great way to celebrate a successful week!

Fun fact about yourself:

Prior to FD, I managed a skydiving center. I love joining people on their first tandem, so if you want to skydive hit me up!

What’s one thing you can’t live without?

Green chile. Especially green chile on breakfast burritos.

Name 3 people you’d have over for dinner (dead or alive):

My Aunt Nancy, who passed away from cancer when I was 18; Elyse Myers, she’s so hilarious and relatable; and Michael Pollan, one of my favorite authors.

Where would your dream vacation be and why?

Currently Ireland and Scotland are at the top of my list! That is where my ancestors are from, and I still have some distant relatives there. I would love to take that trip with my two sisters.