Adventures in Training with a Purpose

By Paula Green with Caleb Kolb

Adventures in Training with a Purpose (ATP), located in Wexford, was founded in 2015 by Jon Kolb, Pittsburgh Steeler and four-time Super Bowl champion. ATP assists service members and first responders by providing free physical and mental health services to help clients retrieve a quality of life that may have been taken away by physical injury, depression, PTSD, and other conditions. Additionally, they provide services for civilians at a reduced cost. This local nonprofit organization is dedicated to enhancing the lives of those in need through purposeful, adventure-based physical training, setting it apart from traditional fitness programs.

Aurelius, a special division of ATP, is geared towards service members and first responders. ATP's executive director, Caleb Kolb, said, "We offer a 12-week program for veterans and first responders. Part of the program concentrates on functional training and complex movement patterns. Another portion is 'adventures,' where we venture outdoors with a variety of activities, ranging from bonfires, hiking in North Park or McConnell's Mill, to hiking the Grand Canyon or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Once the client graduates from the 12-week program, they can return to ATP anytime and utilize our facility."

ATP also works with clients who experience chronic conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, MS, ALS, strokes, and paralyzed individuals. Utilizing activity-based training such as boxing is a big part of their approach to wellness.

ATP offers a comprehensive range of services, from mental health and neuroscience to regenerative medicine. “Our shared office space fosters an integration of physical and mental wellness programs, guaranteeing our clients the best possible care. It's a one-stop shop for all your wellness needs, where the movement builds the mind, providing a reassuring sense of comprehensive support,” Caleb said.

“ATP's commitment to individualized care is evident in our assessment process and goal setting. We believe that each goal should be manageable and tailored to the individual. We work with our clients to create a schedule that best suits their needs. Our facility is equipped with specialized equipment designed to aid in physical recovery, such as the HydroWorx tank. This aquatic water system is particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues, providing a unique and effective solution to their needs,” Caleb said.

The commitment to supporting the whole person also includes supporting the caregivers and families of the clients who train there, as well as the children of the community. New this year, ATP has initiated programs for children, with the focus of exploring the benefits of being active and bringing a positive atmosphere to physical activity.

Mark your calendars, for ATP's Annual Golf Outing on July 29, from 8:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. (shotgun at 9 a.m.) at Diamond Run Golf Club, Sewickley. For information on ATP's mission and services, opportunities to support, upcoming events, and other programs please visit their website at www.adventurestraining.org