The Boston Bruins Foundation has awarded a grant of $3,775 to support On Belay, a non-profit organization that provides alternative therapeutic activities for children whose families have been affected by cancer. This grant will be used to support an expansion of On Belay’s programs to four rock climbing gyms throughout New England potential locations includes: Metro Rock in Boston, Indoor Ascent in Dover, New Hampshire, PetraCliffs in Bolton, Vermont, and the Maine Rock Gym in Portland, Maine.
On Belay programs provide children who have or have had a parent with cancer access to adventure activities such as rock climbing and high ropes courses. Facilitators use these activities to create a metaphor for participants, teaching them that if they can overcome these challenges, they have the strength and perseverance to overcome anything. Participants are encouraged to connect with other children facing similar challenges, to think creatively, to challenge themselves, to support others, and to ask for help, all while building physical and emotional confidence.
On Belay was created by Durham, NH resident Crescentia Healy-True. When Healy-True was diagnosed with breast cancer, she immediately recognized the challenges her two daughters, ages 12 and 14, were about to face. After researching support groups and bereavement programs that might provide comfort for the girls while she underwent treatment, she determined none were the right fit for her animated, active, and adventurous daughters. Recognizing this unmet need, Crescentia decided to create an alternative to traditional therapeutic support systems, and On Belay was born. Since its inception in 2004, On Belay has served 150 families throughout New England.
The Boston Bruins Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation that assists charitable organizations that demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for children throughout New England. The Foundation provides grants to organizations that meet the standards of its mission, concentrating on athletics, academics, health, and community outreach.
This award from the Boston Bruins Foundation, along with the support of the participating indoor rock gyms, will allow 125 children from across New England to participate in On Belay programs, which are always free to all participants. To register for one of these programs, or for more information about On Belay, visit www.on-belay.org or email questions to info@on-belay.org.
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