The Climb Away Newsletter
"This program has really helped my child to feel loved, and she doesn't feel alone now. It can be so isolating and so hard to have a sibling with cancer. It's scary, and chaotic. This program gives her what she needs."
- On Belay Parent
A Year of Growth and New Partnerships
Our 2023 programs are in full swing, and we have a lot of them this year! We've added six new programs in the last 2 years, bringing our 2023 total to 15 programs!
This year our On Belay kids will be able to climb at new indoor rock climbing gyms, get back out on the ocean for surfing, rock climb outside, and adventure in two new overnight sites this summer. We are also launching a new joint program venture with Lucy's Love Bus (more on that below).
In addition to the program growth this year, On Belay's staff and board are also focused on increasing our outreach and visibility in New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts. Our goal is to reach more kids and families this year than we ever have before.
These initiatives are in service to our founder, Crescentia Healy True, and her mission to provide a community of support for kids impacted by a loved one's cancer. With more programs, youth have increased opportunities to create a strong community. As we strive to reach more kids and families, we work towards ensuring no child feels alone when a loved one has cancer.
I am excited for what this year and beyond will bring for On Belay. The kids we will serve, the adventures to be had, and the community of support that will continue to strengthen, grow, and lift everyone it touches.
Warmly,
Madeline Brooks
Executive Director
Field Notes From Mason
Last week, a small group of On Belay teens joined me and volunteer Kelsey on Winter Teen Outdoor Adventure at Gunstock Mountain Ski resort. It was a cold day, and when the families showed up, the teens were tired and groggy from such an early start that morning. Everyone quickly warmed up to each other with the help of some hilarious group games. The group received a fantastic cross-country ski lesson and everyone was zipping around the groomed trails in record time. After lunch, the group used teamwork and collaboration to complete a challenge called "Electric Fence." We finished the day with some time on the tubing hill, french fries in the lodge, and some friendly card game competition.
All On Belay programs end with a debrief and a quick survey where the kids share what they learned, experienced, and took away from the program. I was thrilled when I reviewed the surveys and saw that 100% of the kids said they "felt better" after the program than when they arrived that morning. They attributed that positive shift to "making friends," experiencing cross-country skiing for the first time, and having fun with “pals” who understand them.
As always, a rewarding day with a great group of kids!
Peace and Be Wild,
Mason Burke
Program Director
What is New?
New Partnership with Lucy's Love Bus
On Belay has teamed up with Lucy's Love Bus for three new joint programs to serve kids who have or have had cancer and their siblings!
Lucy's Love Bus is a nonprofit organization that provides free integrative therapies and holistic support to deliver joy, comfort, and quality of life to children with cancer and their families. The joint venture will consist of three programs throughout the year including indoor rock climbing, archery, and surfing!
We will also be working with Northeast Passage to ensure access to all necessary adaptive equipment and staff for those who need it.
On Belay is Searching for New Board Members
We are adding several new members to our Board of Directors!
We are looking for candidates with the following skills, industry experience, and expertise:
Cancer Care/Hospital Network
HR/Legal
Marketing
Finance
Local Connections
However, above all, we are looking for individuals interested in and passionate about supporting and stewarding On Belay's mission.
Interested in learning more? Reach out to Madeline at madeline@on-belay.org.
Save the Date
New Hampshire Gives June 6 & 7
Mark your calendar now! On Belay is participating in the largest single day of fundraising in the state of New Hampshire again this year!
Help us smash last year's fundraising amount of $17,000! Don't worry, you don't have to be in New Hampshire to participate!
Summer Overnight Programs
Basecamp Outdoor Adventure (ages 10-13): June 26-28
Teen Overnight Adventure (ages 14-18): July 24-27
We have two exciting new overnight trips planned for our middle school and high school aged Belayer's this summer! Save the date now, registration will open soon!
Upcoming On Belay Programs
We still have space at the following upcoming programs! Learn more about them HERE.
Indoor Rock Climbing -- NH Climbing & Fitness (Ages 8-18) - March 18th
Indoor Rock Climbing -- MetroRock (for kids with cancer and their siblings) - April 1st
Indoor Rock Climbing -- Boston Bouldering Project (ages 8-18)- April 15th
Challenge Course -- Project Adventure (ages 8-18) - May 13th
