Big City Mountaineers (BCM), a provider of life-changing wilderness experiences to under-resourced youth, on Tuesday announced the group’s partnership with Backpacker Magazine for the inaugural National Summit Day on Aug 4.
The day aims to promote reaching the peaks of real and metaphorical summits, while fundraising for BCM’s youth programs, which have sent over 10,000 under-served youth on expeditions to date.
“On National Summit Day we recognize that throughout history and across cultures people have found different, meaningful ways to relate to the mountains, the land and outdoor spaces,” said Dennis Lewon, Backpacker Magazine editor and chief. “We welcome everyone of every stripe, color, orientation, race, religion, identity, background and ability, to join us for National Summit Day. No matter what ‘summit’ you choose, it’s not about the fancy gear or relating to the outdoors in any one particular way. It’s about coming together to celebrate summits, real and metaphorical.”
On the National Summit Day webpage, visitors can choose to donate to Big City Mountaineers, providing access to the outdoors to under-served youth who otherwise would not have the chance to experience a summit—whether it’s a physical mountain or a personal peak. A $50 donation is enough to provide a participant with his first overnight experience, and $250 can provide meals around the campfire for a week-long group expedition.
“Backpacker Magazine has always been one of BCM’s biggest supporters, and we are grateful for the chance to grow that partnership through National Summit Day,” said Doug Sandok, corporate relations director for BCM. “We look forward to seeing participants personalize the summits they choose—whether it’s your first 14er, an open water swim or a walk in the woods with friends.”
Backpacker’s Summit Day site also allows participants to register a hike or adventure, or join another group’s hike if registering solo. The spirit of inclusiveness reflects BCM’s mission to increase access to the outdoors, as well as the organization’s belief that time spent outdoors can create lasting bonds between participants.
To donate, register a “summit” or join an existing outdoor adventure on National Summit Day, visit backpacker.com/page/national-summit-day.
