American Lung Association® Volunteer Excellence Awards 2001

World-renowned mountain climber Lou Whittaker has been the guiding light of the American Lung Association® of Washington's Climb For Clean Air^® special event program since it's inception in 1988.

Lou suffered from asthma as a child and, as an active outdoorsman, was also a natural spokesperson for air quality. On the first climb, Lou led a team of 16 business leaders up the slopes of Mount Rainier in exchange for corporate donations. Today, the event draws adventurous souls from all over the nation and has to date raised over $2 million!

Most participants cite the opportunity to meet the legendary Lou Whittaker as their main reason for climbing. Lou's involvement with the climb extends to holding his 'pre-climb chats' with the teams the night before their climb and hosting the Celebration Dinner when they return from their two-day summit climb. In addition, Lou sometimes appears at our meetings for the climbers and as surprise host for one of the climb schools. On an inspirational video, Lou assures children that, even with asthma, you can climb great peaks.

Lou is truly an inspiration to many people, and his leadership has helped make this event grow to where nearly 100 people climb with us each year!

Thank you, Lou!