About Us
River Arviso | Aps Wall, Malibu Creek
Our Vision
Our vision is to lead in mental health recovery through inclusive climbing experiences, and supporting individuals on their unique journey of self-exploration.
Cole Matas | The Drifter, Malibu Creek
Our Mission
Climbing Through Darkness dedicates itself to offering transformative rock-climbing and outdoor experiences that enhance mental well-being by creating the opportunity for self-exploration. Our goal is to encourage individuals to face life's trials with resilience, supported by a close-knit community united through the love of climbing.
Cole Matas | The Drifter, Malibu Creek
Our Values
Inclusive Climbing Culture
We believe in fostering a climbing environment that is welcoming to all, where everyone, regardless of background or ability, feels included and valued. Equality is at the heart of our community, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to discover the beauty of the climb.
Courageous Exploration
We encourage a culture of comfortability to try, embracing the raw and challenging aspects of climbing. By providing a neutral and welcoming environment, we invite individuals to step outside their comfort zones, knowing that growth and self-discovery thrive in the face of challenges.
Compassionate Connection
Every story matters, and we value compassion for everyone's unique journey. Our community is built on open-hearted connections, where sharing and listening to each other's experiences foster understanding, empathy, and support.
Gratitude-Centered Growth
We approach climbing and life with gratitude for the journey. Finding joy in overcoming challenges is an essential part of our values towards a sustainable well-being state. When in nature, we vow to stay on trails and leave only footprints of gratitude behind, respecting and honoring the wild country we venture into.
Wholehearted Living
Wholeheartedness is at the core of who we are. We embrace openness to change, encourage hands-on learning, and believe in the power of incorporating natural movement in life. Climbing Through Darkness is a space where individuals wholeheartedly engage with the climb and their personal growth journey.
Rock Reaction Crew | Hidden Valley, Jousha Tree
Our Journey to Light: The History of Climbing Through Darkness
Welcome to Climbing Through Darkness, a space born from the depths of personal struggle, resilience, and the transformative power of rock climbing. I'm James, one of the co-founders, and I want to share the vulnerable yet hopeful story that led to the creation of this community.
The Catalyst:
Climbing Through Darkness emerged from the shadows of my own mental struggles, the walls I constructed within my abilities, and the loneliness my mind fabricated. The constant yearning for change, the beauty hidden in the unknown, and the desire for connection fueled the inception of this initiative. Recognizing that climbing is not just about ascending walls but connecting the mind to the physical self, we discovered a powerful tool for mental well-being and self-awareness.
The Climbing Journey:
My personal journey with climbing started at a local gym, initially seen as a source of curiosity. As I pursued challenges, setting unique problems that merged physical abilities with mental challenges, the true beauty of climbing unfolded. The outdoor climbs, with hands gripping thin edges and feet finding secure holds, revealed the natural bliss of self-challenge, community support, and a profound connection to Mother Earth. Climbing became more than a sport; it became a state of bliss where mind, body, and community intertwined.
Connecting with Community:
Climbing Through Darkness evolved organically from a personal passion to a community-driven initiative. Climbers, drawn together by the shared process of growth through mental and physical challenges, found each other naturally. The climbing community played a pivotal role, shaping the supportive environment we aimed to create. Red Rocks, Nevada, became a symbol of this connection, where climbing mirrored the awe-inspiring journey of life.
Climbing allows us to transcend to our true selves, and we wanted Climbing Through Darkness to be a space where everyone could explore their unknown possibilities, both on the wall and in their personal lives.
Climbing Through Darkness isn't just about climbing rocks; it's about embracing challenges, forging unique paths, and transforming one's life into a wholehearted journey. The impact of individuals who have been part of this community is immeasurable, contributing to an ongoing narrative of growth, empowerment, and the realization that the light shines brightest when we confront the darkness together. Welcome to our community; let's climb towards the light.
With hope and resilience,
James
Our Team
Hey there, I'm James, and I've discovered my sanctuary in climbing rocks. Each ascent brings me closer to self-discovery and complete acceptance of who I already am. "We are only our best version of our limited self."
Climbing isn't just a hobby for me—it's a way of life. There's an indescribable magic in the upward movement, a feeling of freedom intertwined with challenge. As I navigate the vertical world, I find myself carving my own path, marking each route with my unique style. Climbing has been my constant companion through life's highs and lows, teaching me resilience and offering solace in times of darkness.
My journey through climbing has been a journey from darkness to light, from self-destruction to self-discovery. I've experienced firsthand the transformative power of climbing, and I'm passionate about sharing this gift with others. Through Climbing Through Darkness, I aim to illuminate the path for those struggling in their own dark journey, offering hope, support, and community along the way.
My personal struggles and triumphs have shaped my approach to leadership within Climbing Through Darkness. Having faced my own battles with self-doubt and uncertainty, I understand the importance of resilience and perseverance. Through this organization, I hope to empower others to overcome their obstacles and embrace the journey towards their divine selves.
"The only way to change the world is through complete self-acceptance, rooted in love and spiritual balance. When individuals recognize sustainable well-being, it exponentially impacts their community, profoundly transforming the world into a place of tranquility."
Hello, I'm Nic, and I've always found solace and strength on the rocky faces of the world. As a passionate climber, I've come to view climbing not just as a sport, but as a profound metaphor for life itself—a journey of peaks and valleys, challenges and triumphs, and the constant pursuit of growth.
Climbing has been an integral part of my personal growth and journey towards overcoming challenges. It serves as a mirror, reflecting my inner self and providing a canvas where both physical abilities and mental states of mind can be tested and refined. Through climbing, I've learned to confront my fears, push past my limits, and discover the resilience and courage that reside within me.
I am deeply motivated to join Climbing Through Darkness because I believe in the transformative power of climbing and the importance of sharing this experience with others. The opportunity to spend time outdoors, immersed in movement and nature, is a privilege I cherish. I am passionate about extending this opportunity to others, especially those who may be facing personal challenges and seeking solace and growth through climbing.
My personal values align closely with the mission of Climbing Through Darkness. Climbing, to me, is not just about fun and adventure; it's about fostering resilience, boldness, and a willingness to face the unknown. These values are essential in overcoming personal challenges, and I take pride in cultivating them within myself. As a member of the board, I envision making a meaningful impact by sharing these values with others, creating opportunities for growth, healing, and empowerment through climbing.
Greetings, I'm Paul, a seasoned climber who believes in the transformative power of scaling cliffs and conquering personal challenges.
My journey into rock climbing commenced with a daunting challenge at Tahquitz. Despite the intimidating rock face, I summoned the courage to ascend. The feeling of triumph as I reached the summit ignited a passion within me, fueling my desire to tackle even more routes, push my limits, and face the self-imposed limitations head-on.
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Entering my 50s, I faced doubts about my capabilities as a climber. However, I refused to let negative self-talk define my journey. I'm determined to show others that age and self-doubt need not be barriers to achieving their goals, whether on the rock or in my daily life.
As a devoted family man, I understand the importance of leadership and support. Climbing Through Darkness resonates with me on a personal level, as its mission aligns with my values of resilience and community. Through this organization, I aim to guide others towards personal growth and healing, drawing upon the lessons learned from nature and physical challenges.
