Though the name sounds like double talk, Big City Mountaineers is straight-forward in its mission: The group “mentors under-resourced urban teens through transformative outdoor experiences to enrich lives, broaden horizons and instill critical life skills.” And they’ve already garnered the attention of some big-names sponsors, like REI and Merrell.
But the 501(c)3 non-profit can go even farther with additional financial support, and local climber Eben Henner has a plan to raise money for the worthy cause. “I am supporting Big City Mountaineers through a fundraiser called Summit for Someone,” he writes in an email to Xpress. “As part of the fundraiser I have committed to climb Grand Teton peak in Wyoming while raising at least $3,400 for Big City Mountaineers.”
He adds, “After I first caught wind of this project, I found myself unable to get the whole idea off my mind. It just seemed like the perfect win-win situation. Sure, it is allowing me to live out my mountaineering dream, but more importantly, it is passing that dream onto someone else who might not otherwise experience everything the outdoors has to offer.”
Henner’s climb starts on Saturday, Aug. 11; he expects to finish in three days. No doubt he’ll get it done: Henner has already met his fundraising goal but he wants to do even more. He’s put together a benefit show. The event takes place on Saturday, Aug. 4 at the Altamont Brewing Company (1042 Haywood Rd. in West Asheville). Local Americana/rock band Clouds of Greer (with members of Broomstars, The Whappers, Hello Hugo and Vic Chestnutt’s band) perform.
The show starts at 9 p.m. Cover is $5 and it all goes directly to Big City Mountaineers. Party, donate and wish Henner well on his climb.
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