Summit7 is a non-profit organization raising funds for housing projects in the countries of Tanzania, Russia, Nepal, Australia, Argentina and the U.S. Summit7’s goal is to raise money over the next several years in conjunction with their efforts to summit the tallest peak on each of the world’s seven continents.

Summit7 has designated Habitat for Humanity, The Fuller Center for Housing, and other international home building charities as the beneficiaries for all funds raised through their efforts for the countries noted above. Summit7 has selected the International Arctic Research Center for the study of global environmental issues to receive funds in conjunction with their Antarctica climb.

Summit7 was founded in 2005 by Evan Jacobsen, now 17 and a junior at San Clemente High School in Orange County, CA, and his father, Donald Jacobsen, 48, business owner. Edie Jacobsen, Donald’s wife and Evan’s mother, is also on the board of Summit7. Katherine Hills, owner of a marketing/advertising agency, Rich Galpin, owner of an appraisal company and long-time Boy Scout leader in Orange County, and Bethany Fernley, former Director, Major Gifts, for Habitat for Humanity International, complete the board of Summit7.

Evan’s climbing experience includes Mt. Elbrus, Russia, Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, Mt. Kosciuszko, Australia and Mt. Aconcagua, Argentina, as well as several 10K+ peaks in California and Washington. Evan attended the Alpine Ascents International Mountaineering School in preparation for his climbs, and is a member of the American Alpine Club and the outdoor environmental organization, Leave No Trace. Evan has also climbed with Adventure Consultants, headquartered in New Zealand. In addition, Evan is a member of San Clemente High School’s varsity football team and is currently ranked number one nationally in long snapping for his graduating class. Evan is also an avid weight lifter.

As of March 2008, Summit7 has donated enough to Habitat for Humanity International to build 5 homes in Tanzania and 1+ home in Argentina. They have also donated towards homebuilding through Habitat for Humanity Russia and Australia, and through The Fuller Center for Housing in the U.S. Summit7 will next donate to Habitat for Humanity U.S. in conjunction with their Mt. Denali, Alaska climb.