Committee Mission Statement
Administer safe, fun, and guided adventures on all natural and artificial climbs. Dedicated to the mission and guidelines of Project C.O.P.E, Belay-On, and Scouting America Policies for participants of all ability levels. Ensure the proper training and certification of adults and youth volunteers to ensure a robust and sustainable COPE and Climbing program offering a full variety of activities suitable for Cubs, Webelos, AOLs, Scouts, Venturers, and Adult Leaders. Ensure that all facilities, equipment and materials are in good repair, with detailed logs, and determined to be adequate for safe and enjoyable activities.
Training Opportunities
Hosted by your COPE & Climbing Committee!
Winter Climbing Instructor Course
When: Feb 6,7 & 13
Cost: $65
Climbing Instructor in Training – $65 – An entry-level role where individuals gain hands-on experience under supervision, learning climbing safety, equipment use, and risk management. Essential for building future instructors and ensuring safe climbing activities in Scouting America.
Aged 16-17
Climbing Instructor Level I – $65 – Trained to lead climbing activities on artificial walls and simple natural surfaces, focusing on safety, belay techniques, and instruction. Required for conducting BSA climbing programs under the guidance of a higher-level instructor.
Aged 18+
Climbing Instructor Level II – $65 – Advanced training allowing instructors to manage climbing programs on more complex natural surfaces, train Level I instructors, and oversee risk management. Critical for expanding climbing opportunities while maintaining BSA safety standards.
Aged 21+ and must be current Climbing Instructor Level I or II
Resources
Climb on Safely – Scouting.org
Committee Membership
Chairman – Howard Ito, James Dixon (Co-chair)
Members – Bob Huss, John McIntosh, Charlie Benedict, Grant Zandvliet
Ex-Officio Members – Andrew Olvera (Tahquitz Director), Aaron Reyes (COPE Director), Evan Jones (COPE Director)
Staff Advisor – Kevin Folkerts
Meetings: Second Tuesday of every month – 6:30pm on Zoom
Meeting Minutes: Coming SOON!
Without Scouting, many youth will not have an opportunity to be exposed to High Adventure Activities in a safe and structured environment. COPE & Climbing programs for all Council events are staffed by members of the committee alongside individuals trained and vetted by its members. These dedicated volunteers have received special training and certifications to ensure the safety and enjoyment of Scouts at every level of Scouting and beyond.
The Committee is always looking to grow our trained volunteers to improve our ability to provide enhanced COPE & Climbing opportunities for Scouts in our program and youth in our communities. If you have experience with high ropes courses, natural or artificial rock, and are interested in joining our team.
Please contact our committee Chairman Howard Ito for more information.