In this episode of the Landmark Difference Makers Podcast, we sit down with Brian and Mariana Steelsmith, founders of United Rocks—a nonprofit that is transforming the lives of young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through the unexpected medium of indoor rock climbing.
What began as a simple desire to help their son Jake stay active grew into a nationwide movement—one that builds strength, confidence, independence, and community, one climb at a time.
From Diagnosis to Possibility
The Steelsmiths speak candidly about the moment many parents know all too well: receiving a diagnosis that changes everything. They describe the fear, grief, and uncertainty that followed—and the pivotal shift that occurred when they discovered a new possibility instead of a fixed future.
“When you find a possibility in that darkness and it actually gets traction, it’s no longer darkness.”
United Rocks was born from that shift.
Why Rock Climbing Works
Rock climbing offers something uniquely powerful for people with cognitive impairments. While some climbers struggle with balance, posture, or coordination on the ground, those challenges often disappear on the wall. Suspended in a harness, focusing on handholds and foot placements, climbers experience success in ways they never have before.
Beyond the physical benefits, climbing develops:
- Focus and problem-solving
- Trust and communication
- Emotional regulation and confidence
- Social connection and belonging
For many climbers, this is the first time they experience themselves as capable, strong, and independent.
More Than a Program—A Community
United Rocks doesn’t just impact climbers. Parents, siblings, volunteers, gym staff, teachers, and therapists all notice the difference. Parents are encouraged—sometimes for the first time—to step back and allow their children space to grow, take risks, and succeed on their own.
What emerges is a shared community where families feel supported, volunteers feel inspired, and climbers form friendships that often don’t come easily elsewhere.
Redefining Success
Rather than emphasizing competition, United Rocks hosts Climb Fests—celebrations focused on participation, joy, and progress. Success isn’t about winning; it’s about showing up, trying, and discovering what’s possible.
One story shared in the interview captures this powerfully: a young man who initially needed five volunteers to support him on a short wall now climbs a 60-foot wall independently—radiating pride and confidence.
A Growing National Movement
Today, United Rocks operates across multiple states, partnering with major climbing gyms and supported by elite climbers from the broader climbing community. The organization is also working toward inclusion in future Special Olympics exhibitions—building a bridge where none previously existed.
Leadership Rooted in Contribution
Brian and Mariana credit their Landmark education with helping them step beyond self-doubt, stay in action, and continually expand what they believe is possible. They emphasize that United Rocks is no longer “their” project—it belongs to the communities it serves.
When asked what they want to be remembered for, Brian’s answer is simple and profound:
“Nothing. I want Jake to be known.”
✨ Listen to the full episode to hear how United Rocks is redefining inclusion, strength, and community for young people with cognitive disabilities.
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