United Rocks is proud to be the first organization in the U.S. to offer rock climbing teams for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). What started with just one gym in Plano, TX, has grown into a movement—expanding to eleven locations across five states in just four years!
We’ve grown from 5 climbers to 500, proving that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible. And this is just the beginning! Our mission is to keep growing, bringing the joy and empowerment of climbing to communities across the U.S. and beyond!
United Rocks is creating rock climbing teams for kids and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, health challenges, and behavioral differences. Everyone is welcome, minimum age to participate is 5 years old.
The climbing journey can pose unique obstacles and challenges for individuals with disabilities, such as wearing the harness or shoes, getting on a wall for the first time, and becoming part of a team. Each of these milestones represents a victory to be celebrated.
We make it a habit to recognize and praise our climbers as they continuously reach new heights, both literally and figuratively.
Not only does rock climbing increase strength, grip, flexibility, and endurance, it also boosts cognitive function and problem-solving skills, building balance, focus, and communication skills. Ultimately, climbing helps build the confidence of the climber, instilling a sense of trust and joy.
Rock climbing is a community that promotes social interaction, welcoming new climbers into a space where individuals of all abilities are welcomed.
CORE VALUES:
Our mission is to promote physical, mental, and social skills through the sport of rock climbing for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Empowerment Through Climbing Program: Use climbing as a tool to enhance confidence, independence, and social skills for individuals with IDD. Improve the overall quality of life and self-esteem of climbers with IDD.
Adaptive Climbing Initiative: Provide inclusive climbing experiences tailored for individuals with IDD. Foster a welcoming and supportive climbing community for people with IDD.
Inclusive Climbing Competitions: Organize climbing competitions specifically designed for individuals with IDD. Provide opportunities for climbers with IDD to showcase their skills and compete in a supportive environment.
Inclusive Climbing Certification: Train climbing instructors and gym staff to effectively support climbers with IDD. Ensure that climbing facilities are equipped to cater to the needs of individuals with IDD.
Community Outreach and Awareness Campaign: Raise awareness about the benefits of climbing for individuals with IDD and promote inclusive participation. Build a more inclusive climbing community that recognizes and values the abilities of climbers with IDD.
Research and Development Program: Conduct research to better understand the needs of climbers with IDD and develop innovative solutions. Continuously improve and adapt climbing programs to better serve individuals with IDD.
Climbing Camps and Retreats: Offer immersive climbing experiences in natural settings for individuals with IDD. Promote physical fitness, connection with nature, and a sense of adventure among climbers with IDD.
Family and Caregiver Support Program: Support families and caregivers of climbers with IDD through resources and community connections. Ensure families and caregivers feel empowered and supported in helping their loved ones participate in climbing.
These programs and campaigns align with United Rocks’ mission to promote inclusivity, empowerment, and community for climbers with IDD, ensuring they have access to meaningful and enriching climbing experiences.
Our core values are equity and inclusion. We have created a safe and fun environment for kids and adults with IDD, volunteers, coaches, gym staff and board members so they can feel welcome, valued, respected and included.
We believe in providing equal treatment to all individuals regardless of gender, age, race or disability.
Organization name
United Rocks
Causes
Intellectual, Developmental, and Physical Differences
Operating Budget
Less than $100,000
Counties Served
Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Grayson, Parker, Rockwall, Tarrant
BIPOC Serving
Black or African American, Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic or Latinx, Native American
BIPOC Leadership
Neither/None
Address
1905 BRIARCREEK LN