Testimonials

From the mentees

“As a middle aged woman, it is challenging to begin a new physically demanding sport such as outdoor rock climbing. The Babes in the Bluffs* program has created a learning environment that is inclusive, safe and welcoming. It is rare to be able to learn in a group that provides learning at multiple skill levels that is also directed at meeting each participant’s learning style and goals, successfully creating both a physical safe space and an emotional safe space for each climber, whether mentor or mentee. I have accomplished an unbelievable amount in a few short months due to the incredible people I’ve met and learned with this summer.”

-Climbing mentee, 2023

“One of my life goals has been to climb mountains. I looked up to women in the community as barrier breakers and examples of true strength. As a queer, neuro-diverse, non-binary individual, the climbing community did not feel like a super accessible place. Constant feelings of having to hide parts of myself and being misunderstood by my peers lead to lost opportunities to grow my skills or reach my goals. Babes in the Bluffs* gave me a space to be myself, make mistakes safely, find a community who understands, foster self growth, and be proud of who I am. It is a community who uplifts, supports, inspires and fulfills. Through Babes in the Bluffs, I have reached my goals, exceeded expectations of my capabilities as a climber, and built passion and the possibility to continue climbing more mountains. I have found belonging, and achieved more than I had ever imagined.”

-Climbing mentee, 2023

“This was such a great opportunity. Everybody was so encouraging and welcoming and the mentors were knowledgeable and friendly. It made it easy to learn and ask questions.”

-Climbing mentee, 2023

“Babes in the Bluffs* has done an amazing job with creating an open space to feel included not only as a climber but more importantly as a person.”

-Climbing mentee, 2023

*Babes in the Bluffs was our 2023 Pilot Program

From the mentors

“I'd been away from climbing for several years and on the lookout for a climbing community/partner(s) for some time. It couldn't be just any random group or set of climbers - they had to meet a number of criteria: above all prioritize safety, align with my climbing ethics and personal values, be supportive, have fun, and not chase grades. Climbing can be a dangerous sport, so finding the right-fit community was paramount. Stumbling across Babes in the Bluffs* in the spring was both serendipitous and meant to be. Through this group, I was introduced to a like-minded climbing community and met climbers of varying levels, experience, skills, teaching techniques and knowledge; all of this not only met, but exceeded my criteria & expectations.”

-Climbing mentor, 2023

“This program helped me to connect in a meaningful way with the climbing community, introducing me to people who genuinely care about others. I felt excited from the very first event to get out and learn from both mentors and mentees alike!”

-Climbing mentor, 2023

“Babes in the Bluffs* provided the platform and the opportunity to meet and connect with a like-minded climbing community while set in a highly safe, well organized, inclusive, and encouraging environment. Coming back to climbing after a long hiatus was not as intimidating & frightening as I had dreaded, instead it was exciting & fun with multiple learning and growth opportunities.”

-Climbing mentor, 2023

“It was incredible to see the impact that the workshops, community, and overall inclusive attitude that this organization embraced made to those who attended climbing meet-ups and community events/workshops. I can't wait to see how the impact continues to unfold and am so honoured to be a part of this integral piece of the climbing community.”

-Climbing mentor, 2023

*Babes in the Bluffs was our 2023 Pilot Program