The 10th Annual Climb for Literacy

The 10th Annual Climb for Literacy Event to Benefit Two Literacy-related Causes in Eagle County

Internationally renowned mountaineer Ellen Miller continues to use her unique talents and sense of purpose to give generously to her community. Ellen’s “Climb for Literacy” fundraiser is celebrating its 10th year. She created the event in 2008 with a desire to help children channel their passion for climbing in a way that gave back to their community by raising funds for local literacy programs.

The 10th Annual Climb for Literacy will take place on November 14 and 15 at the Vail Vitality Center at the Vail Mountain Lodge.

“I created Climb for Literacy 10 years ago because I love climbing and I love the Vail Valley,” explained Miller, the first American woman to summit Mt. Everest from both the north and the south sides. “I wanted to teach young climbers that they could use their skills to help other people. In essence, it’s kids climbing to help other kids.”

From the beginning, The Climb for Literacy has benefitted several organizations, both locally and internationally. This year’s event will benefit two local groups: The Literacy Project of Eagle County and the Vail Pet Partners Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.) program.

As Miller explained, “I chose the Literacy Project of Eagle County and the Vail Pet Partners programs because I believe they are a natural fit. And, we know that the several thousand dollars we raise can have a genuine impact in supporting literacy right here in Eagle County.”

Colleen Gray, Executive Director of The Literacy Project, concurs. “The Literacy Project volunteers are the heart and soul of our organization,” said Gray. “We currently have 75 Eagle County middle school students paired with Literacy Project volunteers through our Study Friends program.” The Study Friends program helps academically at-risk middle school students gain the skills they need to better meet the academic and social demands of school. “A donation of $100 provides the initial training for one Study Friends tutor.”

This year, the Vail Athletic Club climbing team will climb vertical feet on an indoor climbing wall for donations, while adults from Miller’s outdoor fitness groups will climb actual mountains to raise funds for the causes. Donors can sponsor a climber to contribute toward the event.

“Community members can sponsor the Climb for Literacy any way they’d like,” said Miller, “Whether it’s a flat donation or a per foot vertical donation, there aren’t any strict guidelines.”

Call Ellen Miller to Sponsor a climber at 970-389-5392.

IF YOU GO…

What: The 10th Annual Climb for Literacy Fundraiser

Where: Vail Athletic Club, 352 E. Meadow Drive in Vail Village

When: November 14 and 15, 6:00-8:00 pm each day

Cost: Varies. The public is invited to sponsor a climber to raise funds for The Literacy Project of Eagle County and the Vail Pet Partners R.E.A.D. programs

More information: Call Ellen Miller at 970-389-5392