Kismet Rock Foundation

Based in North Conway, New Hampshire, Kismet Rock Foundation nourishes the physical, intellectual, and emotional development of rural and urban children throughout New England before they enter their formative teen years.

Kismet Rock Foundation provides a four-year progressive outdoor climbing education program to diverse, low-income youth. Students spend one week each summer learning technical climbing skills while immersed in a supportive, family-like environment. The program not only introduces climbing and communication skills but ultimately fosters a sense of respect for our natural environment. To complement summer programming, Kismet staff maintain connections with students during the school year by organizing one-day programming opportunities for students in their communities to climb and get to know other peers in the Kismet program. We are dedicated to each student and work with other partner organizations in the students' communities to advocate for their participation in areas of interest and to encourage the students to expand their involvement. 

We work with guidance counselors and educators from partnering schools to find appropriate candidates. Through a presentation and then interview process, Kismet staff learn about each individual student and identify those who fit best with and could benefit most from our program. 

Students are accepted into groups of 8 or 9, where they remain for four years. They receive transportation, mentor-guided housing, nutritious meals, equipment, and daily technical climbing instruction from professional guides. First-year students learn basic techniques, site safety, respect for the environment and other climbers, as well as ways to improve communication. Returning students advance to more technical components of rock-climbing. 

Our program provides a space where young people are honored, seen, and heard as individuals. At the start of each program week, we ask students to commit to a “full value” contract. It promises a journey filled with respect, safety, and kindness. Kismet achieves the family-like atmosphere by having students contribute to the planning and development of the house community. They share responsibilities such as cooking, cleaning, and planning of evening activities that range from a visit to the ice cream shop or a hike to the top of a ledge for stargazing. 

Our four-year model allows for life-long bonds to grow and peer relationships to deepen. Once a student is accepted into the program, our dedicated staff goes above and beyond to make sure they can complete all four years. 

Contact Owen McAndrew programs@kismetrockfoundation.org (603) 730-2001 Kismet Rock Foundation

Population Served
The youth we serve represent a diverse population, with various ethnic backgrounds and gender identities. They range from ages 13 to 17 and come from Fryeburg and Portland, Maine; Greater Boston; Massachusetts area; and Bartlett, Berlin, Conway, Gorham, and Manchester, New Hampshire. Our students are limited in material and social capital. Many come from stressful home situations and/or trauma. Despite being at significant risk, however, they do not demonstrate destructive behavior patterns and are not identified as needing rehabilitation, therapy, or adjudication. Kismet focuses on the enhancement of a child’s potential by intentionally creating a loving environment and family dynamic. 

Staff Composition

• Executive Director
• Program Manager
• Programs and Office Coordinator
• House Staff
• Interns
• Rock Climbing Guides

Cost to Participate
100% free to the student

Kismet Rock Foundation in the Media

Vibe Magazine
Read: Kismet Rock Foundation: Providing Children a Chance to Become...