The No Barriers Impact
No Barriers is an organization dedicated to helping individuals overcome challenges and live meaningful lives. With a focus on inclusivity, they provide a range of programs and experiences that empower people to break through physical, emotional, and mental barriers. With a strong and passionate team, adaptive mobility equipment like the GRIT Freedom Chair, and the support of volunteers and partner organizations alike, No Barriers helps participants unlock their potential and find purpose, regardless of the obstacles they face.
Their Mission
Founded in 2005 by a group of educators, adventurers, and visionaries—including Erik Weihenmayer, the first blind person to summit Mount Everest—No Barriers was created to inspire people to push beyond their limitations. Their mission is to help individuals discover their inner strength and resilience, providing them with the tools and experiences needed to overcome adversity.
“[No Barriers strives to] provide transformative programs and experiences that shift mindsets, create belonging, and foster self-discovery to elevate individuals and their communities.”
—No Barriers
No Barriers’ captures their core philosophy through the phrase, “What’s within you is stronger than what’s in your way.” This belief drives the organization’s programs, which are designed to help participants confront and overcome their personal challenges, whether physical, emotional, or cognitive.
Signature Event: “What’s Your Everest”
One of No Barriers’ most significant annual events is the “What’s Your Everest” challenge. This event, inspired by Erik Weihenmayer’s historic ascent of Mount Everest, invites participants to identify their personal “Everest”—any challenge that seems insurmountable—and then work together to overcome it.
The event typically involves a physical hike or climb, symbolizing the personal journeys participants undertake in their lives. It’s a powerful experience that brings together people of all abilities to face a shared challenge. The event fosters a sense of community and solidarity, reinforcing the idea that no matter how daunting a challenge may seem, it can be overcome with determination, support, and the right mindset.
No Barriers’ Programs
No Barriers offers a variety of programs that cater to different groups, including youth, veterans, adults with disabilities, and caregivers. These programs are designed to help participants build confidence, develop leadership skills, and connect with others who are facing similar challenges.
No Barriers Warriors
The No Barriers Warriors program is one of the organization’s flagship initiatives. It offers transformative experiences for veterans with disabilities, helping them reclaim their lives and reintegrate into their communities. The program often offers outdoor adventures, leadership training, and opportunities for veterans to connect with others who have served. The No Barriers Warriors adventures have included 12-to-15-mile backpacking trips, whitewater rafting, and more.
No Barriers Youth
The No Barriers Youth program empowers young people to overcome personal barriers and develop the skills needed to succeed in life. Through outdoor expeditions, service-learning projects, and resilience workshops, participants learn to navigate challenges, build confidence, and work effectively as part of a team. The program is designed to help youth discover their potential and develop the leadership skills that will serve them throughout their lives.
No Barriers Summit
Another major event hosted by No Barriers is the No Barriers Summit, a multi-day gathering that brings together people of all abilities to participate in a variety of activities, workshops, and discussions. The Summit is a celebration of what’s possible when we push beyond our perceived limitations. It offers participants the chance to try new activities, connect with others, and gain new perspectives on what it means to live a no-barriers life.
Adaptive Equipment
No Barriers incorporates adaptive equipment into their programming to ensure that everyone can fully engage in their activities. This equipment, which includes devices like the GRIT Freedom Chair, adaptive bikes, and specialized climbing gear, is designed to accommodate different physical needs and allow participants to navigate challenging environments.
For example, outdoor programs and events such as the “What’s Your Everest” challenge often include a hike or other physical challenge. Adaptive mobility equipment like the all-terrain GRIT Freedom Chair allow participants to enjoy the adventure and reach the summit safely.
Conclusion
No Barriers provides individuals with the tools, experiences, and support they need to overcome personal challenges and live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Their “What’s Your Everest” event and other initiatives highlight No Barriers’ commitment to helping people of all abilities push beyond their limits and discover their inner strength. GRIT is proud to partner with No Barriers and continue to make the outdoors accessible for all.