LITTLETON — For 10 months they've trained to change their lives and conquer a 20,000-foot mountain in South Africa.
The road to get there, though the 2extreme Foundation wasn't an easy one. John Davis founded the organization more than 20 years ago.
Through the program young men who are struggling with drugs, school, family life or other stresses dedicate 10 months of their life to make positive changes in their lives.
They're taught to be accountable, and respectful and are encouraged to get involved in their community. They train hard mentally and physically to conquer their goal. The final step is getting to the top of the 20,000-foot mountain.
“Ten months ago I was really heavy into drugs," said Luke, a 2xtreme team member. "I didn't have a good relationship with my parents and they sought out to find John.”
He excelled in the program and says life now is so much brighter.
“Being sober for the past 9 months has really allowed me to mature," he said. "It's funny how everything plays out I feel like the last 9 months have been one of the best 9 months of my life. I’ve met incredible people. I’ve had incredible experiences and how I’m going to be halfway across the world hiking building relationships with people that I’m going to have the rest of my life,” said Luke.
After going through the program himself, Zach Galbreath decided to volunteer his time to help other young men.
“I first met John about 22 years ago when I was 15 years old," Galbreath said. "I had what I would consider to be your typical teenager kind of rebel, anger management issues. I met John and he helped guide me through some of those problems. I can honestly say that I would not be where I am today if it wasn't for him.”
The students graduated from the program in May and in June left for their final quest, a 20,000-foot climb in Peru.
PHOTO: 2extreme Foundation trip
They conquered Mt. Copa and Mt. Ishinca. Mt. Copa is 20,030 feet and Mt Ishinca is 18,143.
They didn't stop there, while in Lima, they visited a local orphanage for two days to connect with the kids there. During their visit, they played games and taught them a little about American life.
You can find more information about the 2extreme Foundation here
