One of SOAR’s goals is to introduce opportunities to participants that will help expand mental and physical growth, have a presence in our community, and enrich the life of the individual. We had the pleasure of once again meeting this goal this weekend when SOAR had the chance to explore hands-on rock climbing.
Over a year ago talks took place to get SOAR in the door and on the ropes of the Whitman Climbing Center. This idea was welcomed by the Whitman College Director of Outdoor Programs, Brien Sheedy. During our one-year wait, Brien was in the process of making sure that the climbing facility had adaptive equipment (such as a Wellman Spreader and a static rope) and staff were being trained to meet the needs of individuals within the Walla Walla community that have varied disabilities.
Upon our arrival at the climbing center, participants were fitted into their climbing harnesses, watched a safety video, and were then placed into groups with a Climbing Center staff member and fanned out along the rock wall. From there participants were instructed on how to clip in, ascend (hand and foot placement), and practice falling at low heights so that they can learn to trust the rope and the belayer.
Can I just tell you how amazing it was to see participants triumph over fears of heights, to challenge themselves, to try something new, and to reach the top of the wall! There was immediate feedback yesterday to how enjoyable this experience was for our SOAR participants.
If you were a participant or have a participant that really enjoyed this experience then there is great news for you! The Whitman Climbing Center is open to the public 7 days a week! Admission is $20 per person, but they also offer private lessons as well at $25/hour. Brien is a firm believer that Rock Climbing is for everyone and he and his staff are here to help people achieve and surpass goals so that they too can enjoy this recreational sport.
For more information on the Whitman Rock Climbing Center and its programs, please visit their website: Whitman Climbing Center
