Alumnus James Sims Climbs for Kids

As part of IP5280’s Climbing For Kids, Metro State alumnus James Sims (’09, BHS) will climb Mount Bierstadt (14,060’) on August 13 in an effort to raise $10,000 for kids at The Children’s Hospital and The Kempe Foundation.

“I strive to help kids who must climb much bigger mountains every day,” says the avid mountaineer and Aspen local. Sims’ motivation stems from his love of the mountains—he has been climbing for ten+ years—and the fact that his half sister was born premature at The Children’s Hospital.

“Thanks to the hospital, she has been given the chance to grow into an outstanding individual,” he explained by email. His sister, Annie Perizzolo, is a 13-time All-American and three-time Div III national champ and holds countless school records at Claremont Mckenna College, where she is an junior. Read more about Annie here.

Sims started raising funds July 24 and will continue to do so until August 13. One hundred percent of donations will be given to the general funds of the hospital and The Kempe Foundation, to be dispersed wherever they are most needed.

“Combining climbing and raising money just go hand in hand for me,” said Sims. “I find that the people who have the determination to climb mountains also can find the energy to raise money for great causes.”

Sims strives to climb every peak over 13,000ft in North America, and this next winter he will be going to the highest points in every Central American Country. He also plans to continue to do good works and inspire others to do good work.

“This is not the first I have raised money for a good cause, and it definitely won’t be the last time,” he stated. “I can only hope that others will follow. I know many people feel that if you can't pay, then you can't participate. But by simply talking about a cause or using networking sites like Facebook, hundreds of others can see or hear about a charity that they could possibly become a part of.”

To donate to Sims’ cause, visit his Web site.