Summiting Dreams & Building Bonds in the Tetons

For 28 summers, City Kids participants have journeyed from Washington, D.C. to the majestic landscapes of Jackson Hole, Wyoming to embark on transformative outdoor adventures. Upon landing at Jackson Hole Airport, they are greeted by the iconic jagged peaks of the Teton Mountains. These towering giants serve as the backdrop for pivotal moments and unbreakable bonds they will develop throughout adolescence. 

Over the past 12 years, 40 Job Experience Trainees (JETs) have attempted the 13,775 feet of the Grand Teton and carried on the tradition adding their names to the City Kids Grand Climb Paddle. This year City Kids selected three exceptional participants to test their limits, two of whom were given a second chance to summit, as harsh weather conditions prevented the final climb to the top after making it to the Western Summit. 

Kat, a rising senior, joined graduating seniors and Grand Climb veterans, Don’Zeal and Osaro, on the multi-day rigorous training required to climb the Grand. Years of developing backpacking, hiking, climbing, and other vital outdoor skills through City Kids prepared these JETs to embrace new challenges and overcome their fears. They began their journey with the Teton Crest Trail (TCT), a demanding five-night, six-day backpacking trip that laid the physical and mental groundwork for the Grand Climb. Preparations also included two days of intensive training with Exum guides, Morgan and John Michael, where they honed their climbing techniques and rappelling skills.

“Even though it was physically challenging, it was nice having friends to support me,” Kat reflected on her TCT experience during the annual Grand Climb celebration at Dornans, held just hours after their descent. Don’Zeal, Osaro, Kat, along with Nico and Larkin, City Kids summer staff, shared their insights from the TCT and Grand Climb with City Kids staff and summer camp participants. The joy, camaraderie, and love within the group were palpable as they recounted their stories, shared laughter, and reflections.

Larkin expressed admiration for the JETs’ resilience, “I would hear what you were stressed or worried about, and then loved seeing how you absolutely smashed every single worry,” they said of the JETs.

The final day of the journey serendipitously fell on Osaro’s 18th birthday, and the group lit a candle for him on a honeybun atop the summit, making a special day unforgettable. For many, both youth and staff, the City Kids community is the enduring legacy of the program. 

Osaro’s most memorable moment was making snow angels at Hurricane Pass, while Nico cherished the heart-to-heart conversations at Death Canyon Shelf, overlooking moose wandering below. Along their journey, they engaged in snowball fights, made friendship bracelets, stargazed, and serenaded each other with songs from Hamilton. The bonds and shared memories created along the way made the experience truly remarkable.

To younger City Kids participants, all three JETs encouraged them to strive for the Grand Climb. “You should definitely do it, it’s fun,” said Don’Zeal. “It’s definitely a workout, but if you just push yourself, you’ll get up there. And the views… even though you won’t get to take a shower for a while, it’s worth it,” he joked.

Kat emphasized the importance of self-care. Despite rolling both ankles, Kat persisted all the way to the Black Dike, demonstrating immense determination and strength. 

Don’Zeal advised, “When you get mad or worked up, take a little time for yourself. Go for a walk, meditate, so you can come back to the group keeping it positive.” Nico added, “If you have the group caring for you, it’s easier to take care of yourself.”

The resilience, joy, and teamwork displayed by these JETs embody the spirit of the City Kids experience. They will carry the values of perseverance, belief in their personal power, and unshakeable bonds with them as they pursue new heights after City Kids.