Paradox Sports partners with Razom for Ukraine to launch adaptive climbing program for Ukrainian veterans with disabilities

Paradox Sports, a non-profit organization that makes rock and ice climbing accessible to people with physical disabilities, is partnering with Razom for Ukraine, a prominent U.S.-based nonprofit, to help launch a new adaptive climbing program for Ukrainian veterans.

Adaptive climbing is a proven way to rebuild strength, manage PTSD, and regain confidence after life‑altering injuries and the trauma of war. It helps veterans redefine what’s possible with a disability, and reconnect with a sense of purpose, and a supportive community of peers. The program and training come as Ukraine faces a rapidly growing need for community-based support for veterans with disabilities. A recent New York Times article noted that there are now estimated to be at least 100,000 amputees in the country.

Working towards a better future for Ukraine and its people, Razom for Ukraine invited Paradox Sports to help develop the new adaptive climbing program, and host an in-country adaptive climbing training August 2–6, 2026. During the training, Paradox Sports will share adaptive climbing systems and equipment strategies, disability awareness best practices, volunteer and instructor training models, and approaches for growing climbing communities that welcome people with disabilities. In Ukraine, the ongoing program will be supported by local climbing community leaders and nonprofits Second Wind and Petros.

Razom for Ukraine was founded in 2014 by Ukrainian and Ukrainian American volunteers inspired by the Revolution of Dignity and united by a shared commitment to Ukraine’s freedom and democratic future. Razom has grown from a grassroots volunteer initiative into an international organization supporting Ukraine through humanitarian aid, health care, advocacy, civil society, culture, and long-term recovery efforts.

“Paradox is deeply honored that Razom for Ukraine asked us to work with Ukrainian veterans, climbers, and partner organizations to help develop this critical resource,” said Alex Kosseff, Executive Director of Paradox Sports. “Ukraine is facing a massive scale of war-related injuries and trauma including amputations, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and PTSD. The need for rehabilitation, reintegration, and community is profound. This project shares what Paradox has learned over nearly 20 years of adaptive climbing and veteran programming with Ukraine.”

Adaptive climbing is a proven way to rebuild strength, manage PTSD, and regain confidence after life‑altering injuries and the trauma of war. It helps veterans redefine what’s possible with a disability, and reconnect with a sense of purpose, and a supportive community of peers. The program and training come as Ukraine faces a rapidly growing need for community-based support for veterans with disabilities. A recent New York Times article noted that there are now estimated to be at least 100,000 amputees in the country, and highlighted the growing role of sports in helping wounded soldiers rebuild strength, confidence, and connection.

“Nature has a remarkable ability to help people heal, regardless of the depth of their wounds and trauma,” said DJ Skelton, Paradox Sports co-founder, retired U.S. Army Major, and advisor to Ukrainian leadership on veterans’ affairs. “Climbing transcends boundaries, borders, nationality, and language. It brings people together through challenge, trust, and belonging. This work in Ukraine represents the best of what adaptive sports can offer: resilience, recovery, community, and hope.”

Razom for Ukraine has committed $8,000 to help make the training and program possible. Paradox Sports is raising funds to match that support, and expand the impact of the project. Petzl, the manufacturer of premium outdoor and climbing gear, is donating climbing equipment for the program and ongoing use in Ukraine.

Paradox Sports is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives and communities through adaptive climbing opportunities that defy convention. For nearly 20 years, Paradox has helped make climbing more accessible through national trips, community programs, adaptive climbing trainings, Veteran programs, and partnerships with climbing gyms, guide services, volunteers, and adaptive athletes across the United States.

For more information about the program and upcoming training, visit Paradox Sports Ukraine Adaptive Climbing Initiative.