Pat and Tom Finley Climb Mount Kilimanjaro to Raise Awareness for North Coast Community Homes ucked back on the corner of Halcyon and Cedar Roads sits a group home that was purchased by North Coast Community Homes (NCCH) in 1989. Since 1984, NCCH has developed more than 200 homes in 60 communities throughout northeast Ohio, housing nearly 1,000 individuals with developmental, intellectual and physical disabilities. With services provided by Jewish Family Services Association, this Beachwood property has been called “home” for eight people at any given time for the past 25 years. “All homes are customized to the needs of each resident, allowing them maximum independence,” Steve McPeake, president and CEO of NCCH, told us. “Our residents thrive because of the generous support of individuals, corporations, and foundations.” And now, Pat Finley, NCCH chairman of the board of trustees, and his 79-year-old dad, Tom, are T the buzz behind the organization’s most recent fundraising effort. They love their favorite charity so much, that they “climbed the highest mountain” to prove it. Just last month, the duo climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, which, at 19,341 feet, is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. According to National Geographic, only about 45% of those who attempt the climb actually reach the summit successfully. The father-son team is raising money for the ongoing mission of NCCH, and invites the community to join them in spirit by making a pledge to the non-profit organization in support of their climb. Their goal is to jointly raise $50,000. The duo began training in April, by climbing local slopes, and exercising while wearing equipment that builds up their red blood cells and simulates a lower-oxygen, higher-altitude environment. They even slept in tents that gradually reduce the amount of oxygen available. “We are very grateful that we can make this attempt,” Pat revealed early in his training. “Because of their disabilities, the people we serve will likely never have an opportunity like this. We’re fortunate and want to do something for them.” “What a joy to travel with my son and experience this together,” Tom added during a recent training session. “When first asked about this back in September, I only had to think for a moment before saying Pictured from left: Tom and Pat Finley train to climb Mount Kilamanjaro. Photo credit: Janice Schrag, North Coast Community Homes. yes. It’s the perfect time for this. It has a purpose, is a priority, and I am super motivated.” Pat and Tom Finley arrived in Tanzania on June 4 and began their ascent four or five days later. They aimed to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro early on Sunday, June 15, Father’s Day, and to celebrate Pat’s 50th birthday just a day later, while on their descent. “Pat and I have an agreement,” Tom said. “If either of us experiences difficulty, the other will go on.” Prior to their journey, Tom, who plans to live to at least the age of 100, admitted that he was looking forward to this extraordinary moment. “What a joy it will be,” he smiled, “to stand on top of that mountain with our son.” CONGRATULATIONS! Prior to going to press, Beachwood Buzz received an email stating that both Pat and Tom made it to the summit. To view photos or to make a donation to NCCH, visit ncch.donorpages. com/KilimanjaroClimb2014 or www. ncch.org and click on the Finley link. 48 Beachwood Buzz n July 2014