Employee Rock Climbing Experience

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

Prior to the busy season, we wanted something that would genuinely bring the team together—not another meeting, but a shared experience. We took our staff offsite to Movement Climbing Gym for a team-building morning centered on trust, collaboration, and shared challenge. Rock climbing naturally forces people to rely on one another in real time through spotting, encouragement, and cheering each other on, which created an immediate spark of camaraderie heading into the season. People who rarely work side by side suddenly had to collaborate, breaking the ice in minutes instead of months. Timing the experience before the season began gave the team an energy and morale boost when it mattered most, and everyone returned laughing, energized, and more connected. Most importantly, it reinforced a culture where employees feel invested in—showing that Glenmoor prioritizes meaningful experiences for its team, not just expectations placed on them.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

We learned that Cigna provides a $1,000 annual wellness budget, and instead of letting it go unused, we put it to work. An early-season offsite was scheduled at Movement, conveniently located and accessible for all departments. Waivers were coordinated in advance, and the climbing session was designed to be flexible so everyone could participate at their own comfort level. Gym instructors handled belaying, safety, and group challenges, allowing the team to focus on bonding and having fun. After the event, photos and highlights were shared internally to keep the energy going and celebrate the experience together. Rock climbing proved to be a high-impact culture boost without requiring a large investment, and having an HR lead who understands these resources and actively encourages their use made a meaningful difference.

This idea is easily replicable for other clubs by partnering with a local climbing gym, utilizing available wellness funds through their provider, blending guided challenges with free climbing time, and creating an experience that naturally strengthens team connections back in daily operations.