The winter months have been exciting for Ara and me as we learn the Kismet ropes. We are in the midst of connecting with returning students and visiting our participant schools with presentations to interested students on the Kismet opportunity.  We have been fortunate to have Trustee Donna McCluskey and founder Mike Jewell guide us as we carry the work of Kismet forward. Needless to say, we are in awe as we gain insight and understanding of the powerful formative impact of Kismet on all involved.  

Below you will find a few images and insights of our winter work, student reflections, and a special highlight of one of Kismet’s most dedicated supporters.   

Thank you for your trust in our work and allowing us to make a difference in these kids' lives.  

Krissy Fraser - Executive Director 

Kismet in Motion

Program Manager Ara Morton has quickly taken the reins in working with the dedicated counselors at our participating schools.  Over the winter months we have visited 8 schools across New England, sharing a presentation on the Kismet opportunity and then meeting directly with interested students to consider next steps in their participation with Kismet. 

The Kismet Experience 2021

"My whole Kismet experience has been filled with love and caring people... a wonderful feeling of safety, stability, and being accepted." - 4thYear Student (ME)

"Kismet gave me a chance to see where I can go or what I can do." 
- 1st Year Student (NH)

"I became part of a family that I feel loved in. My mental health has improved and I feel amazing." - 1st Year Student (MA)

"[Kismet] taught me that there are still good people in the world". - 4thYear Student (NH)

Kismet Because of You

In each newsletter we will highlight one of the many wonderful friends of Kismet. To kick it off, we wanted to share and thank our longtime Trustee and steadfast supporter of Kismet, Donna McCluskey. 

Donna’s involvement stems from the very seeds of Kismet when she met founder Mike Jewell and immediately embraced the mission.  Over the years, she has been involved in every aspect of the organization, and in the most recent transition year she took on the role as interim executive director.  Her unyielding commitment and efforts have helped Kismet navigate some of the most challenging years.  Donna’s love for the organization is deeply rooted because of the students she has met and guided along the way and in witnessing their stories of empowerment they gain through the Kismet experience.  

“I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to become a climber and all the joy it has brought to my life. When Mike started Kismet I jumped right in because I wanted to share that joy with children who otherwise would not have the chance to know how much fun it is to be in the mountains and rock climb.”  ~ Donna 

Thank You! 

For now - enjoy the winter and we will be in touch soon.  Thank you again for your continued support and trust in the work of the Kismet Rock Foundation. 

Sincerely Grateful - The Trustees and Staff of KRF

director@kismetrockfoundation.org • 603.730.2715