Neil Luckhurst at the Summit of Allen Mountain.

The Foundation and the Adirondacks mean a great deal to me. Initially, I hiked the 46 High Peaks in the company of my son, Dominic. This experience inspired him to move from Montreal to the Canadian Rockies and pursue a career as a mountain guide. Tragically, on January 7th, 2008 his promising life was cut short on the slopes of Mt. St. Piran when he was killed in an avalanche. The outpouring of support manifested by the members of ADK High Peaks Forum, which I ran with Tim Dubois, inspired us to found the Foundation. Since then, hiking in the Adirondacks and being involved with the foundation and the forum have been particularly helpful in dealing with this loss.

The Foundation raises funds through the forums and donates to important causes within the Forest Preserve, such as search and rescue, summit stewardships and fire tower restoration. The Foundation’s principle fund raising event is the annual Winter Gathering during which we attempt to put a party of hikers on the summit of each High Peak on the same day. As a lead-up to the 10th anniversary event I will be offering sponsorships to individuals and businesses, who can pledge an amount of their choosing for each mountain that I summit. For example, if someone were to pledge one dollar per summit and I reach the summit of all 46 peaks they would then make a tax deductible donation of $46.

You can find out all about the project and how to donate here. We wish Neil all the best on this tremendous endeavor!