The Rucksack Club has been busy during this disrupted year, finding ways to keep in contact with members and maintain the sense of Club community, despite normal activities being largely ‘on hold’.

During the Spring lockdown, the Club held weekly Zoom slideshows (on subjects from El Cap ascents to Alaskan expeditions; and Extreme headpointing to Himalayan adventures – you can view them on catch-up here). The lockdown served as a reminder of the vital part that climbing and the outdoors plays in all of our lives, and prompted the Club to set up a fundraising page to support Urban Uprising who help young people from diverse, disadvantaged backgrounds to discover climbing and use it to help improve their physical, social and emotional wellbeing. In their words: "Elevating and inspiring young people through climbing".

Bringing the story up to date, The Club has just launched the 2021 Rucksack Club Charity Calendar with ALL PROCEEDS (Yes, that’s EVERY PENNY OF YOUR TENNER) going to the charity. You can get a copy for £10 plus p&p here

The Calendar features more than fifty Rucksack Club members (either in front of or behind the lens) in one of The Club’s many diverse outdoor activities. It’s a great reminder of the vitality of The Club that most of the photos were taken in the last year, and we’ve managed to “Get Out There!” despite the circumstances.

Want to support this great cause, but don’t need a calendar? Please donate via this link to help young people from disadvantaged background discover the joy and life-enhancing impact of climbing that we are all privileged to enjoy.

Ben Campbell of Urban Uprising said: “The support for the work Urban Uprising does from members of the Rucksack Club and the wider community has been really heart-warming and motivating. The effects of the pandemic have been rough on young people and we are playing a part in the recovery effort. We really appreciate this support as it is needed now more than ever.”

Dominic Oughton of The Rucksack Club said: “The disruption of climbing due to Covid gave us all time to reflect on the vital importance that it plays in our lives. Supporting Urban Uprising is the perfect opportunity for members of The Club to share the potentially transformative impact of climbing with disadvantaged young people who haven’t been so fortunate.” Thanks for your support!

WATCH: BMC and Urban Uprising’s Ambassador Hazel Findley volunteers for her first session with the charity

Nominate a Volunteer in the 2024 Awards. 

« Back