Our vision
We exist to bring hope to the lives of people affected by Multiple Sclerosis and Functional Neurological Disorder by helping them get outdoors.
More than anything, we want people to experience hope after receiving the diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). We believe outdoor adventure uniquely and powerfully enables positive, life-long change, connection to community and the development of hope: an enriched life.
2022 Grant recipient, David Kyle (second from right) at the Karapoti Classic mountain bike race. Photo by Andrew Turner
“Hope may be fostered through identifying valued and personally meaningful goals, defining them in clear measurable terms, and identifying multiple potential avenues through which goals can be attained.”
In everything we do, we have three goals:
Enabling Change
Neurological conditions can create many barriers to getting outdoors. We use mentoring and physical rehabilitation to give people the tools, strategies and gear they need to overcome these obstacles and sustain long-term access to the outdoors. Their adventure facilitates this values-based learning process, from which we hope people can confidently enjoy the outdoors for many years.
Strengthening Connection
People with MS or FND often feel socially isolated and struggle to find or participate in community. Developing a neurological condition can significantly alter a person's connection to their community, fracturing support networks through physical limitations and society's lack of understanding. We help people strengthen their connection to the community through outdoor participation and encourage adventures that will enable them to forge stronger bonds with those around them..
Developing Hope
We believe that outdoor adventures are a powerful tool for developing hope. Not only do outdoor experiences increase self-efficacy, enable change and strengthen connection to community, but they also give people a sense of accomplishment and progression toward a valued goal or objective. Beyond this, we aim to foster hope in people newly diagnosed with MS or FND by presenting them with role models who have overcome the obstacles they face to live active and meaningful lives outdoors.
These goals also contribute to reducing the significant social and economic cost of MS and FND to New Zealand’s communities, while promoting a wider understanding of MS and FND.
Support Us
Mastering Mountains is a charitable trust. We rely on donations to support and mentor people in New Zealand with Multiple Sclerosis and Functional Neurological Disorder. Your support will help us reach more people, changing their lives for good.
“Between every two pine trees there is a door leading to a new way of life.”