Blind Adventurer Erik Weihenmayer Climbed Mt. Everest, Will Inspire at Partnership’s Annual Dinner
Recently, I read Erik Weihenmayer’s book “No Barriers: A Blind Man’s Journey to Kayak the Grand Canyon.” Erik will be the headline speaker at the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Annual Dinner on Thursday, Jan. 26, and attendees will have an opportunity to hear about Erik’s inspiring journey.
Erik is not only the first blind person in history to climb Mount Everest, but he has also climbed all of the Seven Summits and kayaked the 277 miles of the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. His accomplishments expand past the outdoor adventure space. His “No Barriers” book is a national bestseller, and he has turned that idea into an organization that helps people face their barriers head on.
Regional leaders like Dan Houston, Chairman, President & CEO of Principal, speak highly of Erik’s engaging and inspirational discussions. Our hope is that through hearing his story of overcoming adversity, our attendees will feel energized and motivated to accomplish their most challenging tasks in 2023.
Living a No Barriers Life in 2023
Weihenmayer’s climbing accomplishments and other adventures are documented in the No Barriers Podcast where he and special guest hosts discuss living a No Barriers Life. In addition to his “Now Barriers” book, he has also written two other books, including:
With 2023 underway, Weihenmayer’s message of living a life of no barriers can be applied to both life and business. Creating community comes with breaking barriers and innovating with people of diverse backgrounds. The No Barriers tagline encompasses this — “What’s Within You is Stronger Than What’s in Your Way.”
At the Annual Dinner, we will also reflect on all the ways the DSM community has invested in the region in 2022 and look forward toward the next year in our region by unveiling our 2023 Strategic Priorities. We are also excited to showcase the outdoor recreation amenities throughout our region, including the Iowa Confluence (ICON) Water Trails, with nearly 900 miles of connected recreational trails, our great selection of regional parks and more.
Don’t miss your opportunity to celebrate the successes of DSM and spotlight development in the community. The event will take place at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) from 5 – 9 p.m. Register for the upcoming Annual Dinner at DSMpartnership.com/annualdinner. Registration closes on Saturday, Jan. 21. You can learn more about Erik at erikweihenmayer.com.
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 24 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and more than 365 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.
Jay Byers
Jay Byers is the past President and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. He currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Iowa Chamber Alliance, on the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Executive Board, Board of Directors and Community Growth Education Foundation, the General Council of the World Chambers Federation and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Committee of 100.