2nd Annual 'Peaks 4 Purpose' Challenge

July 10–12, 2026
Benefiting Connecticut's At-Risk Youth

Connecticut's at-risk youth, including teens aging out of foster care face a series of challenges that can feel like mountains—steep, overwhelming, and difficult to climb alone. The 'Peaks 4 Purpose' Challenge both symbolizes and supports their journey by raising awareness and vital funding to help them build safe, independent, and fulfilling futures.

We are thrilled to announce that the 2nd Annual 'Peaks 4 Purpose' Challenge will take place July 10–12, 2026! After the incredible enthusiasm and success of last year’s inaugural event, we’re incorporating exciting enhancements to make this year bigger, more connected, and even more impactful.

What’s New for 2026

📌 Three-Day Challenge Format

We’re condensing the event into three energizing days, with a collective goal:
Summit all 46 High Peaks of the Adirondacks—together.

📌 Team-Based Hiking

The peaks will be grouped into natural clusters of 1–4 mountains.
Each cluster will be led by a Peak Steward, who serves as the team guide and point person.

📌 Participant Experience

Hikers will join teams based on:
• Their preferred peaks
• Hiking ability
• Desired hiking buddies or partners

This structure makes the challenge more collaborative, social, and accessible for a wide range of hikers.

📌 Fundraising for Impact

We’re introducing a team-based fundraising platform:
• Each team will have its own fundraising page
• All pages will roll up to the main event goal
• The collective target for 2026: $46,000+
(Last year we raised $17,000—this year, we're aiming higher!)

Every dollar raised directly supports Children in Placement’s mission to empower teens transitioning out of foster care.

Become a Peak Steward

We need 15 Peak Stewards to serve as team leaders for the mountain clusters.
Stewards will choose their preferred peaks on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you're interested, please reply and let us know—these spots will fill quickly!

Why This Challenge Matters

Just as the Adirondack peaks vary in difficulty, the obstacles teens face as they exit foster care range from daunting to overwhelming. But with a coordinated, committed community behind them, the path upward becomes possible.

By hiking, fundraising, and spreading awareness, you’re helping ensure teens are not climbing alone.

Peaks 4 Purpose directly benefits Children in Placement’s mission to ensure Connecticut’s at-risk youth have a voice, support, and a path forward.

We’ll continue sharing updates as we get closer to July. Thank you for being part of this powerful journey and for helping make a difference—one peak, one team, and one young life at a time.

Joe Vacca & Kaitlin Moore (Event Co-Directors)

⛰️ 46 Peaks 2025🏔️

2nd Annual 'Peaks 4 Purpose' Challenge

By Children in Placement

2nd Annual 'Peaks 4 Purpose' Challenge

Where Mountains Meet Mission — Support Teens Facing Life’s Toughest Summits.

Team Leaderboard

Team Members