please donate shoes

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Messages 1 - 45 of total 45 in this topic
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Original Post - Dec 9, 2012 - 04:20pm PT
I am looking for individuals to donate shoes and money towards a high school rock climbing club. I teach at a high school in Fresno, CA (McLane). We are located 1 mile from MetalMark Climbing Gym. I really want to introduce these kids to climbing, but it is going to take gear and money, neither of which they (or I) have on hand. A large percentage of my students are low-income, foster-kids, etc. It just seems like such a great opportunity being located so near a climbing gym. The gym is going to advertise a shoe donation program, and is also offering reduced rates for my students, but we have a gap to fill if I am going to make this happen. My students live in one of the most financially strapped areas in the nation. I need new and used shoes, money for harnesses (don't want to take on the liability for used harnesses), as well as belay devices. I am NOT a non-profit so there will be no write-off. My goal is to introduce as many students as possible to climbing, and then have 20+ students as part of a 2-3 climbing session/week at the gym. I will be fundraising, but am looking at about $5,000 + gear to get this started. If you have any desire to help out, please email me. I am making no money from this, and I am not being paid for sponsoring the club. I can verify my employment and proof of what I am trying to accomplish. Hopefully this works. Will Haskins
phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 9, 2012 - 07:39pm PT
What kind of belay devices are ok for the gym you are taking them to?
WBraun

climber
Dec 9, 2012 - 07:43pm PT
I teach at a high school in Fresno, CA (McLane).


Gimme money and shoes.

Yet you have an anonymous login name.

Post your real name and photo so we know you are really legit.

Whoops see the name at the end sorry ....
phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 9, 2012 - 07:49pm PT
Werner, he signed Will Haskins. There is a Will Haskins on the staff directory for McLane HS Fresno...(google)

Edit: we crossposted, WB
Russ Walling

Social climber
from Poofters Froth, Wyoming
Dec 10, 2012 - 04:23pm PT
We gots some used shoes if you have an address to ship them to. If you are NOT a Nigerian, email me.
nutjob

Gym climber
Berkeley, CA
Dec 10, 2012 - 04:38pm PT
^^^ or the Finance Minister c#m Chief Aid-de-Campe of the Illustrious but Recently Deposed Leader of the Free People's Provisional Government of South Eastern Swiberia




I have some pretty funky old shoes that need resoles. Are you willing to take those or is it too much of a hassle to deal with?
Spanky

Social climber
boulder co
Dec 10, 2012 - 04:49pm PT
That's fighting the good fight. I work at a low income high school as well. I'm in North Denver and the school is in a low income area. I started a climbing club at the school 4 years ago when I started and its been great. I ended up getting harnesses and belay devices donated and got a size run of demo shoes from La sportiva. We go to the gym once a week after school and do a few local comps. I have taken a few of the kids to eldorado and boulder canyon. I know what you're saying about opening kids eyes to this sport. So many of them live so close to great climbing and didn't even know it was there. I have a core crew of 6-8 kids who climb every week and it has definitely enriched their lives. One kid was so close to dropping out but he got hooked on climbing and I believe it kept him in school. Some of them have even kept climbing after they graduated. I'm saying all this because at first the idea seemed daunting but once it was up and running the rewards were obvious to both the kids and myself so keep working at it. Even if a couple of them stick with it its worth the effort.
labrat

Trad climber
Nevada City, CA
Dec 10, 2012 - 05:52pm PT
Will,
Can I bring donations into the gym in Fresno? Just leave it in your name? I will be working down that way next week and will be spending some time at the gym.

Erik
michaeld

Sport climber
Sacramento
Dec 10, 2012 - 05:56pm PT
Ask Evolv to send you about 400 units of their rental shoes.


@Russ W. I'm not a Nigerian, can I email you? :]
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
the crowd MUST BE MOCKED...Mocked I tell you.
Dec 10, 2012 - 06:28pm PT
when do you need them?
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 10, 2012 - 08:06pm PT
Wow. Just logged on and can't believe the response. Thanks everyone! My address is 631 W Lisbon Lane, Clovis, CA, 93619. Clovis, Ca is a town next to Fresno, which is where I live. You can mail me your gear. I am willing to take anything you send. To put this into perspective, I had kids on my cross-country team this year who were running and racing in shoes that were completely worn through in 3-4 spots...running on bare feet basically. I will take any belay devices or shoes. Anything with a little rubber is better than tennis shoes. I am willing to take shoes that need resoles. My gym is allowing me to set up a box for donations...will have it set up this week. Just leave it in the box. I will start emailing you all individually as well. Thanks for your support!
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 10, 2012 - 08:34pm PT
My phone number is 503-869-3700 if you want to chat before sending gear. It is an Oregon number, but just because I just moved from Portland, OR.
Russ Walling

Social climber
from Poofters Froth, Wyoming
Dec 10, 2012 - 08:37pm PT
I'll have a box on the way tomorrow with somewhere between 5 and 8 pairs in there. Mens and womens, nothing real fancy but should get some kids up on the walls for a while. Good luck with your project.

Edit for MichaelD: ummm... yeah, if you are that lonely, go ahead and email me.
Toker Villain

Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
Dec 10, 2012 - 08:53pm PT
I just sent 10 draws, some lockers, and a brand new pair of shoes to the Philippines (or was it just Nigeria), so I'm tapped out.

But if you can guarantee that this renewed infestation of climbers will confine it's activities to the big ditch just up the road I guess I could come up with a bag of 1/4" bolts,..
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 11, 2012 - 12:04am PT
Toker,

This is a legit request. Feel free to call me to discuss. I left my phone number.

Will Haskins
susan peplow

climber
Joshua Tree, CA
Dec 11, 2012 - 01:00am PT
Will this is a good dead you're doing! Russ will get a box for you sent out. Coincidentally we were just talking about what to do with some old crusty shoes and now we know. They vary on condition but many with good rubber. Normally I wouldn't suggest it but a tumble in the wash may be a good idea to freshen them up.

Get the girls at your school ready for the gym adventure! A handful or better are ladies shoes of variety quality and types.

It's refreshing to see someone enjoying their job and actually cares about these students and their life experiences. Your efforts are truly inspiring as you could easily be spending your nights and weekends self-absorbed like so many of us are.

Good on you and happiness and success in your acts of kindness!

~Susan


phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 11, 2012 - 01:38pm PT
I have a pair of shoes, a locking biner and an ATC to send. But before I send the items in the photo below, please ask your gym if they are allowed as belay devices. The first two are Salewa Sticht plates and the last three are Figure 8s:

Guernica

climber
right there, right then
Dec 11, 2012 - 02:42pm PT
I'll send some old aces, keep up the good work!
Pennsylenvy

Gym climber
A dingy corner in your refrigerator
Dec 11, 2012 - 02:54pm PT
Will gonna look through some things. Have some brand new running shoes also. Give me a wee bit of time. Tim
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 11, 2012 - 07:28pm PT
Once again want to thank everyone. The climbing gym is now letting our students climb for $5 a pop if we can supply the gear. You guys are making a difference.
looking sketchy there...

Social climber
Latitute 33
Dec 11, 2012 - 07:40pm PT
Will, Thank you for what you are doing for these kids.
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 11, 2012 - 07:46pm PT
Happy to pay for shipping. Just got our first money donation. I am working on getting a paypal account set up to simplify things.
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 11, 2012 - 07:53pm PT
Dave, I'm a size 42, but no, I won't nab any rubber. I'm even going to toss my beloved Mythos into the donation box this evening at the gym. It is going to hurt a bit, but it's worth it. I am new to this site and don't know if a person can post pics, but I will make a facebook page or something to show you guys how your efforts are making a difference.
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 13, 2012 - 04:18am PT
FYI for anyone in the Fresno, CA area. We now have a donation box at Metalmark Climbing Gym. I am taking my first group of climbers next Thursday or Friday. Again, thank you to everyone who is donating!
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 13, 2012 - 04:46am PT
I set up a Paypal account. If you want to donate money, the email is haskinsw@gmail.com. I am willing to pay for S&H through Paypal if you send gear.
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 13, 2012 - 04:52am PT
hey there say, all...

wow, neat stuff going one, :)
:)
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 13, 2012 - 08:14am PT
Thanks, locker. Really appreciate it.
phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 13, 2012 - 12:30pm PT
I sent a package yesterday - I'm sure the staff at the gym can show you how the figure 8s are used for belaying. Look for the envelope in the box...

Here is a bump for you. My sister teaches art at an inner city school in CT and has a budget of $1000 annually for supplies for about 500 students. Beside scrounging for donations of materials, trying to obtain grants, and extensive use of recycled material, she also spends $2000-3000 a year of her income to buy supplies.

Teachers spending their own money to help out the students is very common, but no less heroic for being common. Thanks for what you are doing.

Phyl
micronut

Trad climber
Dec 13, 2012 - 01:17pm PT
Will,

I'll hook you up soon. I have a few pair and some basic gear to give. Good on ya for gettin' some of those kids into the "sport" and hopefully someday into the mountains. Remind me if I forget if/when you see me at the gym.

Scott

Imagine, going from the hood down in the city, to a place like this some day! Let's give em an outdoor slideshow some time!

spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 13, 2012 - 05:07pm PT
Silver,

Send them my way. I will have the climbing gym check them out. You can mail your stuff directly to the gym. Just put attention: Will Haskins / McLane High School. Address is below. We really appreciate it.


METALMARK
4042 N. Cedar
Fresno, CA 93726
T 559 229-7900
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 13, 2012 - 05:09pm PT
Scott,

That is a great idea. Possibly an end of the year trip. I'll look for you at the gym. We are planning our first climb at MetalMark next Friday around 3:00 pm.
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 13, 2012 - 06:53pm PT
I probably have at least four pairs I could part with...

Seven pairs will be coming your way tomorrow...

Locker - I HOPE you aren't sending out ones people sent you to resole! Especially Prod's shoes....

(just kidding)
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Dec 13, 2012 - 07:06pm PT

Happie

Those shoes are in Turkmenistan now, won't be going to the gym!!!!
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 17, 2012 - 07:22pm PT
Hey Goat.

Yes, I need chalk bags. Forgot to ask for them. I just emailed you the address.
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 17, 2012 - 07:30pm PT
I just got home from teaching and had three boxes of shoes at my door. I can't explain what this means to me and my students. All of you are making a huge difference and we are creating some momentum. Black Diamond is selling us gear at wholesale, the gym is stepping up big time with discounts and advertising, my Principal is helping with funds, and we are even getting some cash donations. Wow.
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 17, 2012 - 07:34pm PT
Yes sir. Taking it to the gym right now. Adding it to the donation box. My kids can't wait for Friday. Thank you so much.
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 19, 2012 - 07:39pm PT
Quick update. Other schools in our district have heard about what we are doing and are wanting to start their own climbing programs. A school down the street from us is going to join forces with us as well. I really appreciate the gear and money donations everyone has sent in. I still have a big need for belay devices, harnesses, and money. I need to raise $12k. I am not asking for this money from you guys, but am wondering if anyone knows of a source of funding (grants), that might support our cause. I have been looking online, but I am not having much luck. I know this is a long shot, but if you know of anything please let me know. I am willing to put in the work into writing a grant. RIght now we have about 30 pairs of shoes, 6 belay devices, and 3 harnesses. Plus some cash donations and 5 free passes to the climbing gym. Oh yeah, and wholesale pricing on gear from a manufacturer and discounted rates at the gym. Sweet!
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 19, 2012 - 08:02pm PT
Sully,

Good point. I hear you more than you know. CAHSEE is already a part of the equation. I need money but have to play the game. Trying to figure it out. The problem with outside is the liability and lack of experience. I can't take them outside until I know they can handle it. It takes time. And a lot of time needs to be first spent in the gym. People not in education don't understand the legal and political dangers of our profession. A kid gets hurt and I lose my job.
micronut

Trad climber
Dec 19, 2012 - 08:30pm PT
There were four teenagers, all "hood" lookin, peeking in the window the other night at the/this gym (Metalmark). I went outside and they started to walk away, so I hollered and got em to come inside. They were all sheepish....like "look at all these white rich people....."

I told em what we're doing in here and why and that its a good time and a safe place to hang out. I was talking with Josie and Lexie (workers at the front desk), and Josie hands each of 'em a free all day lesson/climbing pass! It was super cool. Way to read my mind Josie! I hope they come back.

From thuggin to cruxin! You never know what kind of a change some rocks can do for a kid. Ron Kauk comes to mind.....
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 9, 2013 - 06:16pm PT
Money and gear donations have continued to roll in. The gym is really on board as well. It appears we are financed through the end of the year! I took 13 students climbing right before Christmas break, and we will start up again on Tuesday. Thank you everyone who has supported this great cause.
spearshaker

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 25, 2013 - 08:55am PT
Here is an update. Lots of pics.

https://www.facebook.com/projectreachclimbing

Let me know if any of you want to purchase a shirt. It is the one on the Facebook link. I will have them available next week. For MetalMark climbers, it is the same fabric the gym uses on their shirts. High quality with a little stretch. Cost to make is $8. I am hoping to get a min. donation of $12 plus shipping (a few bucks). To buy a harness, belay device and carabiner for one student is around $50 (hint, hint).
Timmy1928283

Gym climber
Fresno , CA
Jan 25, 2013 - 10:28pm PT
I am a former student at Mclane High And Mr.Haskins had done an amazing job with taking us to the gym and helping get everything set up for us, we been there for at least a couple of weeks,and we a great time with learning how to climb, do safty procedures, and learning to trust our partners. Thanks to all the people that supported us. This couldn't have happened without you guys.
-Tim Alekson
Mclane High School
Fresno,CA 93703
PhysicsGurl

climber
Jan 26, 2013 - 02:33am PT
While driving 3 students to Fresno State, the students noticed Metalmark and were interested in learning more about it. We had a brief tour and went on our way. A week later I became the sponsor of our school's rock climbing club. We had a club, but no dinero to climb. Metalmark donated free day passes for our students to climb during winter break. Two members of the club donated their time to teach and belay our students. The students were so excited about climbing, they started working out together to prepare for their next climb. It's been almost a month....and daily I am asked, "When are we going to climb again?"

Metalmark recommended that I get in touch with McLane's climbing club. Today I shared the exciting news with my students. McLane has generously shared some of their Metalmark membership with us, and we can climb until the end of the school year.

What an AWESOME opportunity for our students. We don't have a sports program at our school. Juniors and Seniors do not have PE. And according to one of our students, "We're getting FAT!!! and bored."

Thank you McLane and all the people who helped make this happen for our students. Your kindess is greatly appreciated.
DavidFrench

Gym climber
fresno
Jan 26, 2013 - 12:49pm PT
Hello, I am a student at McLANE high and a member of Project Reach. I would just like to thank you all for the donations and helping create this program.
Timmy1928283

Gym climber
Fresno , CA
Jan 29, 2013 - 12:22am PT
http://igg.me/p/325302/x/2261348

I have made a funraising website but this is just part of it. I'll try to figure out what other things we could do like go around pick up trash or car washes or cleaning up graffiti
Messages 1 - 45 of total 45 in this topic
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