Crossover Climbing Club
Crossover students being guided by ASCEND Instructor, Jason Gilmore.
A ten-year-old boy stands at the foot of a climbing wall, looking up. It seems impossibly high to him—bright and imposing. Around him, his friends are getting ready with their safety gear and harnesses. Some are well on their way to the top. But he just can’t get himself to do it.
This boy is Lamaar Burke. He visited the climbing gym, ASCEND Pittsburgh, with Center of Life’s Crossover program. But that’s not where his story ends.
When he returned after winter break, Lamaar was prepared. He knew exactly what to expect. Encouraged by his friends and the excellent staff of Crossover and ASCEND, Lamaar climbed to the top! He has since been a regular participant in Crossover’s Climbing Club.
ASCEND’s mission is to foster a holistic, community-based, climbing and fitness experience. At ASCEND, the staff works hard to create an inclusive, judgement free space. Their goal is simply to share the joys of climbing and fitness with everyone. Their website reflects this spirit: “The values we live by are simple: We are approachable and authentic, we respect our community, we strive for excellence, we are dedicated to safety, and we love to have fun!” This is in line with Center of Life’s own ethos and makes for a great partnership! Moreover, it creates a great experience for the kids!
Jason Gilmore, a Hazelwood resident, approached Center of Life in the Spring of 2019 about connecting COL and ASCEND. Understanding the lack of diversity in the climbing community, Jason had intentions to change that by engaging COL in this sport of climbing. And, after a fun and enriching summer experiences for Camp Hazelwood participants, Jason reached out about starting a Climbing Club for the academic year with our after-school students. This has proved to be a fun and elevating experience for all youth involved.
Crossover student, Ari Moyer (right) with ASCEND instructor, Marina Di Marco (left).
During their sessions, the COL group climbs on bouldering walls (climbing without ropes) and also on the top-roping wall (climbing with ropes) while being coached and belayed by ASCEND’s great staff, primarily Marina DiMarco and Jordan Burger. Jasmine Gilmore is the Youth Director.
For Ari Moyer, age 9 “it is really fun because when you climb it feels like you are climbing a real mountain!” Miciah McCoy, age 10, shares the sentiment: “I feel like an explorer outside!” Desire Thomas, age 10, still remembers the first time she made it to the top, “It was scary, but I was really proud that I did that!”
Working with the group of kids from Center of Life is the highlight of the staff members’ weeks. They admire the way the students support and encourage one another and are respectful of the safety rules as well. Most admirable of all, they are always willing to push their limits and try new things!
On paper, you may not grasp the full picture, but activities such as these are important for our youth. In addition to physical wellness, the climbers learn about communication, cooperation, and the rewards of a strong will and hard work to reach all heights and goals!
The first time Lamaar made it to the top of the wall he felt “on top of the world.” And that’s not a feeling that fades away. At Center of Life, we look forward to a time we can return to these triumphs and introduce more students to the joys of ASCEND. Till then, we remain undaunted by the metaphorical cliffs we have to scale.