Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for Laing House

On September 11, 2009, a group of Laing House supporters and volunteers will reach new heights in raising awareness of youth mental issues as they climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa. Henry and Rena Demone, Hans and Dani Himmelman, and Dr. David Kirkpatrick and Paula Taylor, will encourage and support each other as they work their way to the top of the summit. The idea was born when the friends gathered at the 2007 Laing House Masquerade Ball fundraising event. Each of them had experienced mental illness in their lives - through a friend, family member or colleague - and wanted to come up with a unique way to support the work of Laing House. The group decided to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, raise money for Laing House, and increase awareness of youth mental health issues. They launched their fundraising efforts in 2008. As a group, they have set a goal to raise $60,000 for youth living with mental illness. To make a donation to support the efforts of this extraordinary team, as well as to follow their progress, please visit http://stepupforlainghouse.blogspot.com . Every dollar raised will go directly to Laing House. Kilimanjaro is the word's highest free standing, snow-covered Equatorial Mountain and the highest peak in Africa. The breathable oxygen at the top is less than half the amount than is common at sea level.