Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Web Site Questions

Questions about participating in an OutVentures event

Questions about leading an OutVentures event

Q: Where does the membership money go?

A: Our membership fees support the organization. We use them for potluck supplies and location rentals. We also use them for parades, festivals, our web hosting service, and even an occasional newspaper ad.

Q: Does OutVentures do any winter events?

A: OutVentures was originally "Summer Buddies", the brother (or sister -- however you want to look at it) organization to "Ski Buddies." Each club handled a season of activities. Traditionally, OutVentures closed down at the end of summer. However, the membership fee covers 1 year -- that means ALL seasons! This year we will not be closing down OV just because summer is coming to an end. This is a member-led activity club, so if any of you would like to lead a trip (skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country, snowball fight, making snow angels...) - go for it! We are here to help you or try to answer any questions you might have.

Q: Is this a singles club?

A: No. There are single men and women as well as couples. This is an organization for meeting others who want to have outdoor fun and maybe try new things. (So get your mind out of the gutter!)

Q: Do you teach the classes?

A: No. We find companies that are certified to teach. We just contact them for pricing and scheduling information, then pass this along to you. If you are interested in taking a class that is not posted, contact the Educational Coordinator and suggest it. If you are interested in organizing the class -- even better.

Q: I can't see all the web site content. Do I have to be a member?

A: OutVentures is a club of and for members who have paid to join. In order to provide value to these members, certain information on the website is restricted from non-member guests. Guests have access to our information pages and the General Interest section of our Message Board, as well as the potluck and social event information on our Calendar. To get access to all event details, go to the Membership page and fill out an application. Fees are $20 a year for individuals or $30 for a couple living at the same address.

Q: Why is my Credit Card being denied?

A: Some people have experienced problems while using PayPal. Unfortunately, their site is not under our control, so we are not able to intervene on your behalf. However, this is from the PayPal website:

Since PayPal is a non face-to-face transaction provider, our process for accepting cards is more stringent and complicated. This process helps prevent the use of stolen and unauthorized cards. Since this process is very complex, it does occasionally affect valid cards. The denial of this credit card is not reflective of your credit worthiness. In instances where a good card fails these checks, we suggest you try another card in the system.

If you still are unable to get this to work, please send an email to our membership coordinator: membership@outventures.org

Q: I forgot my password. How do I retreive it?

A: Please email webmaster@outventures.org using the email account you opened your membership with if possible.

Q: How do I participate in an event, do I just show up?

A: Each event listed has a trip leader (shown as the contact person on both the Message Board and Calendar postings). Please let them know if you are interested in joining their activity. Some events are limited to a maximum number of people, or the trip leader may be arranging to meet in a central location and carpool to the beginning point or trailhead, or perhaps there is special information that the trip leader needs to get from you before the event. By contacting the trip leader and letting them know you want to join them, they also can contact you if the activity needs to be postponed or canceled.

Q: Does every member have to lead a trip?

A: No. You don't have to. Just remember that trips are volunteer-led by members, so it helps when members agree to lead or co-lead an activity.

Q: How hard is it to lead trips?

A: Depends. Some trips are less involved -- others more so. You could lead a hiking trip where everyone meets at a designated place and time with a maximum number of people. Easy. Or you could organize a kayaking/camping trip requiring kayaking/camping info, reservations, carpool coordination, etc. More complex. In any case, long-time members can offer planning recommendations. Contact the trip leaders coordinator for suggestions.

Q: Do I have to have trips authorized by anyone?

A: Trips do not have to be authorized, however they cannot be offensive or unsafe.

Q: Can I post a trip 2-3 days prior to the planned date?

A: Yes, and please do. Even if you decide on Wednesday to lead a hike on Saturday, post it! You'll be surprised how many people will join you on your spur of the moment trip.

Q: Anything else I should know?

A: Probably, but my typing is slow. If you have any further questions - just ask. info@outventures.org

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