ADAPTIVE PROGRAMS
As part of our commitment to community, we strive to create climbing spaces which center around disability and inclusion. We believe in the transformational power of climbing, and aim to break down barriers that exist for people with disabilities to enjoy rock climbing.
PRIVATE INSTRUCTION
Jono Lewis
Adaptive Programs Supervisor
Jono has been climbing since 2017, and coaching adaptive climbing since 2020. As a prosthetic user, Jono brings a lived experience to his coaching, with a focus on confidence building both on and off the wall. He leads adaptive climbing clinics indoors and outdoors around the country. Jono loves climbing at Red Rocks and Joshua Tree, open water swimming, and gardening.
- AMGA Single Pitch Instructor (2026 Prospective)
- Book Jono for Youth and Adult Adaptive Instruction at the Beginner and Intermediate levels, and Intro to Adaptive Climbing for Physical Disabilities
Arie Bewarder
Adaptive Climbing Coach
Arie has been climbing since 2018 and loves sharing the sport through adaptive coaching. She works with both individuals and groups, from weekly Parkinson’s sessions to adaptive basecamps and private lessons. Arie brings patience, creativity, and positivity to the wall, helping climbers of all abilities build confidence, discover their strength, and celebrate every milestone together.
- AMGA Single Pitch Instructor (2026 Prospective)
- Specialties: Adaptive climbing, Parkinson’s, private lessons, group sessions, confidence building
- Book Arie for Adaptive climbing at the Beginner and Intermediate levels
Mike Lagueux
Adaptive Climbing Coach
Mike has been climbing since 2009, and coaching Adaptive Climbing at Mesa Rim since 2024. As an experienced climber and former teacher, he is able to provide individualized lessons and instruction, with a focus on learning the systems and gaining confidence while climbing. Mike’s favorite places to climb are Mt. Woodson, Joshua Tree, and Idyllwild. He plays drums and electric bass, enjoys video games, and has a Maine Coon cat named Peach.
- 16 Years of Climbing Experience
- Book Mike for Youth and Adult Adaptive Instruction focused on climbing technique and movement, and/or training at the Beginner and Intermediate levels
Nicole Oga
Adaptive Climbing Coach
Nicole is an adaptive climbing coach and front desk staff at Mesa Rim. She has a deep passion for teaching, with 12 years of experience teaching dance (I am a professional dancer!). Nicole has experience teaching people with disabilities and neurodivergence, understanding the importance of creating safe(r) and inclusive spaces. Each lesson is uniquely tailored to the students needs and wants, focusing on building confidence and having FUN while climbing!
- Master’s in Dance Pedagogy
- Book Nicole for Youth and Adults, Adaptive Instruction at the Beginner and Intermediate levels
Peyton Steffek
Adaptive Climbing Coach
Peyton has been coaching climbers at Mesa Rim since 2022 and has worked with kids across a range of experience, comfort zones, and learning styles. She believes in creating a safe, encouraging, and empowering space for kids to explore their potential—whether that means reaching a goal or simply having fun! She is committed to learning and supporting every athlete in a way that works best for them. Outside of climbing, Peyton loves the ocean, animals, being outside, and reading.
- Specialities in youth belay instruction, on-the-wall movement, and adaptive climbing
- Book Peyton for Youth Instruction focused on Adaptive, Movement, and/or Training at the Beginner and Intermediate levels
Gabe Serban
Adaptive Climbing Coach
Gabe has been coaching at Mesa Rim since 2024. He has worked with kids in the gym and is a recent graduate of SDSU with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education. He strives to teach kids to find their strengths and have a growth mindset. He has worked with adaptive climbers and surfers extensively, learning how to accommodate people’s various needs and getting them moving. When Gabe is not climbing, he loves to be outside, listening to music or playing music, surfing, backpacking, and road biking.
- Specialties: adaptive climbing movement, manual-assisted climbing, side climbing, belay instruction, and youth climbing movement instruction
- Bachelor’s in Elementary Education, with an emphasis in Special Education
- American Red Cross CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified
- Book Gabe for Age Youth or Adults instruction, focused on Adaptive, Movement, and Training. Ability Level: Beginner and Intermediate
Brandi Bravo
Adaptive Climbing Coach
Brandi is an educator and adaptive climbing coach with a passion for inclusive recreation. She began indoor climbing in 2013 and now supports youth with disabilities in top rope and bouldering. With over a decade of teaching experience, she brings creativity, and a strengths-based approach. Brandi also loves spending time outdoors, going to concerts, and cooking new foods.
- Specialties: Youth engagement, communication and behavioral supports, positive behavior intervention, inclusive instruction
- Book Brandi for Youth Adaptive Level for Beginner or Intermediate
Frequently Asked Questions
What demographic does this program serve?
The Adaptive and Innovative Climbing Program serves communities with disabilities or chronic medical conditions. The AICP also seeks to include non-traditional climbing communities like the deaf and hard of hearing community.
Is any adaptive equipment provided?
Mesa Rim can provide various types of harnesses including traditional waist harness, youth and adult full body harness, and wheelchair harness. Mesa Rim can also provide prosthetic climbing feet.
Are there any medical conditions that disqualify a climber from participating?
Mesa Rim does not restrict anyone from climbing based on medical history, but we do encourage participants to communicate with their instructors regarding any challenges they may have and to not push beyond what they are physically comfortable with.
Can my autistic child climb if they are having behavioral problems?
Yes! Mesa Rim encourages all climbers with autism to participate. Climbers may need to begin by practicinging at The Academy during off-hours until we can work through any behavioral problems that pose a risk to the child or other climbers. Mesa Rim also invites any occupational or behavioral therapists to attend climbing sessions at the family’s discretion.
Will I be able to get around the gym if I am in a wheelchair?
Yes, Mesa Rim is fully accessible for climbers in chairs.
Will my prosthetic fall off while I am climbing?
Possibly! We encourage amputees to consult their prosthetist to discuss the best securing options. Mesa Rim can also provide prosthetic leashes if needed.