Rock Climbing as Therapy for Veterans I Crux Wilderness

Host Donna Hoffmeyer talks with Dana and Luke Stricevic, founders of Crux Wilderness, a nonprofit using rock climbing to support veterans and active-duty service members transitioning to civilian life. Luke, a Marine Corps veteran, shares how climbing gave him purpose and structure after leaving the military, and how that personal experience became a mission to serve others.

They explore the strong parallels between military service and climbing, the simple philosophy behind Crux Wilderness, and how their free clinics help veterans build calm, confidence, and community—one climb at a time.

In this episode:

• Rock climbing as a therapeutic, sustainable tool for transition
• Free veteran climbing clinics in San Diego, Joshua Tree, and Inyo National Forest
• Family days, alpine trips, and advanced climbing clinics
• Building community without pressure or obligation

Learn more at Crux Wilderness and discover how climbing can go beyond the frontline.