Fort Collins, CO–A climbing expedition designed to help wounded veterans overcome barriers in their lives was announced last week by Soldiers to Summits (S2S) and Wells Fargo.
The expedition, Mission: Mt. Whitney, is led by S2S, a program of No Barriers USA that uses mountains as a metaphor and training ground to help empower veterans to overcome barriers and live a life of purpose. Sponsor Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a nationwide, diversified, community-based financial services company that has committed $35 million through 2015 to support veterans, military members and their families with sustainable housing, career transition and financial education.
“We want to let our veterans, military members and their families know we are there for them, and we want to do more for them. This is why Mission: Mt. Whitney is so exciting. For us, this isn’t just a sponsorship, it’s truly an honor,” says Jerry Quinn, a reservist and Military Affairs program manager for Wells Fargo. “Soldiers to Summits helps veterans shatter the barriers in their lives. We are proud to be involved in this expedition.”
“I’m looking forward to seeing the outcome of the expedition and what the soldiers will do in their challenges, breaking down barriers, and how our Wells Fargo team and others will be inspired to break down barriers in our own surroundings and do more with what we have, adds Quinn
Dave Shurna, No Barriers USA executive director, says, “The No Barriers mindset is the goal and guide for all Soldiers to Summits programs. During the Mt. Whitney journey, participants will experience physical challenges, team building and training with world-renowned mountaineers such as Charley Mace, Jeff Evans and Erik Weihenmayer, the first blind climber to summit Mount Everest, and a No Barriers founder. Through these experiences, wounded soldiers innovate through adversity and step up to lead and serve others.”
Along with two major training events this summer, expedition participants will take part in a multi-day service project prior to their expedition launch the first of September with summit date planned for September 11. At 14,505, Mt. Whitney is part of the Sierra Nevada mountain range and is the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States.
To be a part of Mission: Mt. Whitney, veterans or soldiers can apply or be nominated beginning today through March 21, 2014. Ideal candidates “possess a desire to overcome their barriers and live a life of purpose,” and a wide range of disabilities including blindness, amputation, severe burns, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) can be accommodated. Candidates will need to dedicate themselves to several months of physical training and participate in pre- and post-program webinars, training and events. To apply, nominate or find out more, go toS2S2014.org.
