Climbing Higher Together: MVP’s Women’s Kilimanjaro Expedition
by Leslie Parsons
In celebration of Women’s History Month, True North’ nonprofit partner Merging Vets and Players (MVP) set out to do something bold—something that reflected both the strength and the spirit of the women they serve.
On March 8, 2026—International Women’s Day—a team of female veterans began an extraordinary journey: a climb up Mount Kilimanjaro, one of the highest peaks in the world. More than just a physical challenge, the “Women’s Kili Climb” was designed as a powerful tribute to the resilience, leadership, and lived experiences of women in the military community.
A Challenge Worthy of the Women Who Took It On
MVP has long been committed to supporting all veterans, but this initiative was intentionally focused on women—recognizing both their contributions and the unique challenges they often face during and after military service.
“We wanted to create something that was physically demanding, deeply meaningful, and truly unforgettable,” said MVP Executive Director Lisa Parmeter, who also participated in the climb.
With elevations reaching over 19,000 feet, Kilimanjaro is not for the faint of heart. The journey tested endurance, preparation, and mental toughness. The team consisted of five hikers—supported by 35 staff members—each bringing her own story, motivation, and personal “why” to the mountain.
Among them was a double amputee, a powerful reminder that strength is not defined by limitations, but by determination.
Preparation, Purpose, and Personal Commitment
Planning for the climb began in the summer of 2025, giving participants time to train, prepare, and meet the financial commitment required for such an ambitious undertaking. MVP provided detailed gear checklists and guidance, ensuring each participant was equipped not only physically, but logistically.
But beyond the gear and the training, what unified the group was something deeper.
These women—two former Marines and two former Navy service members among them—have continued their commitment to service long after leaving the military. Today, they lead nonprofits, serve on boards, and dedicate their lives to strengthening their communities.
As Lisa put it:
“These are people who have invested so much of their heart and their being into supporting others—and this is time for them to reflect and do something for themselves.”
More Than a Summit
While reaching the summit is an incredible achievement, Lisa emphasized that success isn’t defined by standing at the top.
“It’s about the journey,” she said.
And what a journey it was.
After returning, Lisa described the experience with honesty and humor:
“Rain, a full-on blizzard on summit day, rock walls, and a few ‘who signed me up for this?!’ moments along the way. But the real magic? These amazing women!”
The climb became something more than a physical feat—it was a shared experience of perseverance, vulnerability, and connection. A reminder that even the toughest paths are made more meaningful when walked together.
Creating Space for Women to Thrive
MVP continues to look for ways to create programming specifically for female veterans, acknowledging that many have had to navigate male-dominated environments both during and after their service.
Lisa’s connection to this mission is deeply personal. As a military spouse, sibling, and mother—whose daughter served as a combat engineer in the Army, one of only three women in her unit—she has seen firsthand both the challenges and the progress.
While obstacles remain, opportunities for women in the military are growing—and initiatives like the Women’s Kili Climb are helping to ensure that their stories, achievements, and needs are recognized and supported.
Looking Ahead
This year’s climb was self-funded by participants, but MVP hopes to expand the program in the future—bringing on partners and raising funds to make the experience more accessible.
Plans are already underway for another expedition in 2027, with the long-term goal of making the Women’s Kili Climb an annual event open not only to MVP members, but also to family members and community supporters.
At its core, this initiative reflects what MVP does best: bringing people together through shared challenge and shared purpose.
As Lisa so powerfully said, the climb was “a commitment to show up for something bigger than ourselves.”
And in doing so, these women didn’t just climb a mountain—they elevated what’s possible.
To learn more about MVP and the True North Foundation’s other nonprofit partners, please visit our website and subscribe to our newsletter.