Let's Climb!

Let's Climb!

  • Ages 14+

Join us for a fun-filled day of climbing adventures with Let's Climb! - Test your skills and challenge yourself on our exciting rock walls!

By UPS for DownS

Date and time

Saturday, June 14 · 9am - 12pm CDT

Location

First Ascent Arlington Heights

701 Rohlwing Road Arlington Heights, IL 60005

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event

About this event

  • Event lasts 3 hours
  • Ages 14+

Let's Climb!

Come join us for a thrilling climbing experience at First Ascent Arlington Heights! Challenge expectations and give climbing a try. For high school ages and adults with Down syndrome. Family and peers can stay and watch, but priority for the climbing slots is for those for Down syndrome, at least for this first event.

See FAQs below. We will host a Zoom informational Q&A on Wednesday, May 28 @ 7pm so you may get questions answered in advance. Link will be sent upon registration.

Tickets

Frequently asked questions

Is climbing too hard for me?

If you can climb a ladder, you can rock climb! First Ascent has routes for anyone from world-class athletes to absolute beginners. Many people climb, regardless of age or disability, at a level that is enjoyable or challenging for them.

Is climbing dangerous?

We will use safety harnesses, ropes and belayers to make this a safe experience. Top rope climbing keeps the climber tied into a rope anchored to the top of the route. If the climber falls, they may swing away from the wall, but will not take vertical falls.

What safety gear will I need?

First Ascent will provide safety harnesses, climbing shoes and chalk bags (to keep your hands dry). If you are already a climber you are welcome to use your own equipment.

Can I be a belayer?

Any volunteer belayers will need to arrive with a top rope belay certification from a First Ascent gym. Top ropes are pre-equipped with GriGris. Non-certified volunteers will not be able to belay, but we can demonstrate knot tying and belay technique for those interested in learning.

What should I wear to climb?

BRING OR WEAR SOCKS. Any athletic apparel will work. A t-shirt or tank top with long gym shorts, running or hiking pants, leggings with shorts. Climbers will wear a harness that fits over both legs at mid-thigh and around the waist, so shorts/pants should be long enough to fit under the leg loops.

Do I sign a waiver?

All climbers/spectators must sign First Ascent's facility waiver, confirming that they are aware of the risks of climbing and understand proper safety precautions in the gym. We will also watch a video upon arrival to demonstrate important concepts, have a demonstration of equipment/climbing tips.

Organized by

UPSforDownS (United Parent Support for Down Syndrome) is a parent-directed, nonprofit organization offering support, education and encouragement for parents, families and others who love and care about persons with Down syndrome. We inspire community acceptance by sharing with others the presence, potential and abilities of people with Down syndrome.

info@upsfordowns.org