REACH Youth Program

We launched the REACH Youth Program to empower kids through rock climbing. Our ultimate mission: to support youth from underserved communities in becoming climbers and citizens of the climbing community through long-term climbing access and mentorship.

Why climbing? Climbing gives kids an opportunity to build confidence, practice perseverance, engage in problem solving, challenge their perceived limits, and develop mental and physical strength – all while putting a smile on their face and connecting them with a supportive community. 

Through REACH (Reach. Empower. Activate. Challenge. Honor.), First Ascent is providing free or reduced-cost climbing access, coaching, and mentorship to kids from non-profit partners who work with youth ages 13-18 in the neighborhoods we serve. Depending on the needs of the organization and the kids the organization serves, programming can range from monthly group climbing outings to weekly coached climbing sessions.

The heart of REACH is our 10-week Becoming A Climber program, an immersive, progressive experience that includes lessons, challenges, competitions, and coaching to help kids develop their climbing toolkit and learn what it means to be a citizen of the climbing community. As kids progress, they can earn rewards including climbing gear, guest passes, and more. Kids that advance in the program have the opportunity to apply for our competitive climbing team or full membership, as well as mentor future REACH program cohorts.

For REACH kids, the sky is the limit!

Are you a part of an organization serving youth ages 13-18 that would be interested in exploring a REACH Program for youth in your program? Please click here to complete your REACH Program Interest Form. 

Are you a passionate climber who wants to volunteer to welcome youth into the climbing community through the REACH Program? Please click here to complete our REACH Volunteer Mentor Interest form. 

Here are some of the partners we’re working with across FA locations: