Youngest Climber to Ever Summit Mount Everest Turns Attention to Survivors of Nepal Earthquake

CHARLESTON, SC – In May of 2010, 13-year-old Jordan Romero became the youngest person ever to reach the top of Mount Everest. As he prepared to celebrate the fifth anniversary of this historic climb, the country where his dream was realized was catapulted into a nightmare by an earthquake that claimed the lives of more than 8,000. The earthquake also triggered an avalanche on Mount Everest, killing at least 19, making it the deadliest day on the mountain in history.

Recognizing the opportunity his historic anniversary could provide, Jordan is now trying to summit the biggest peak of his life—raising enough money to bring safe water to the people of Nepal. To do so, he is launching a crowd funding initiative called Jordan for Nepal.

“When you are climbing at high altitudes you become aware of the most basic needs like oxygen, calories, and hydration,” Romero said. “Safe water is essential at any altitude. We often take things like water for granted, but it truly can be the difference between life and death.”

In the next thirty days, Jordan will attempt to raise $100,000, which will provide fresh, life-sustaining water for at least 20,000 people per day.  An anonymous donor, who also helped Jordan realize his goal of climbing Mt. Everest, has agreed to match every dollar raised. The potential $200,000 would provide 40,000 people per day with safe water.  Romero has vowed that if he reaches his goal, he is committing to return to Nepal to share the impact of their donations with all that funded the initiative.

The money raised will support the on-going efforts of Water Missions International, which currently has a team of engineers in Nepal installing water treatment equipment in remote villages in need of safe water. Romero chose to support Water Missions for this endeavor, based on their successful track record of delivering safe water solutions in developing countries and disaster areas. “The water treatment solutions they install are sustainable, which means they are making it possible for people to have safe water for the rest of their lives,” said Romero. “In Nepal, I was able fulfill a lifelong goal. But, now, I’ll be able to leave a true legacy, one that makes a difference.”