What is it?
Vertical Generation is a Seattle non-profit that focuses on diversifying the rock climbing community and empowering those of disadvantaged backgrounds. The Stonemasters Program is a partnership between Vertical Generation and the IRC (International Rescue Committee). It is an 8 week mentorship program, where each mentor is pairs with one to two recent refugee students in the Seattle area. The first hour of each session consists of tutoring and english practice, and the second hour is bouldering and top rope climbing at Vertical World, Seattle.
Why Stonemasters?I am currently volunteering for this program, and am loving the laughter, smiles and increase in confidence that has already developed in such a short amount of time. I applied to this program because
I want to help introduce these students to the opportunities of climbing: the self-confidence, trust, and empowerment that come through the challenges of climbing. I can only imagine what these kids have been through, and am excited to help them through what I can! More to come on the impact of this program at the end of Spring 2019... |
"To share the invaluable experience and culture of rock climbing along with the love for the outdoors with youth who otherwise may never have the opportunity.
Vertical Generation is a Seattle-based 501c3 nonprofit project that promotes a growing generation of diverse climbers who are passionate about both their community and the outdoors. We provide underserved, low-income youth the opportunity to be part of the rock climbing community, where they can learn invaluable skills of problem solving, self-determination, physical and mental awareness, and positive support. By developing their skills via indoor gyms they’re prepared for outdoor climbing excursions, where they experience the life and exhilaration of the outdoors to become stewards of the environment." |
"The mission of the IRC is to help people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and gain control of their future."
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