The International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC) is a US 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
Our Mission is to support an ethical mountain trekking culture by promoting social, economic and environmental responsibility.
Established in 1996, IMEC was created to promote responsible and sustainable connections between travelers and the people of developing mountain regions of the world. We have been active in Peru and Nepal.
Since 2020 IMEC has been focusing its efforts on the porters employed on Mount Kilimanjaro through its local initiative, Kilimanjaro Responsible Trekking Organization (KRTO).
Funding
We depend on grants and donations to fund our projects. Please consider making a donation and help make a difference in the lives of porters.
Donations are tax deductible according to U.S. law for U.S. donors. FIN: 84-1348903.
Thank you
Our gratitude goes out to all of our incredible donors. A special “Thank You” to:
Tanzania
In Tanzania we support, empower and motivate porters and mountain crews. Read more about the program to improve responsible mountain trekking and the main projects:
- Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project
- Kilimanjaro Environmental Care Awareness
- Community Empowerment and Development
Peru/Nepal
In Peru and Himalaya we are getting back on track. Follow our newsletter for updates.
Founder
Sc
ott Dimetrosky has founded the International Mountain Explorers Connection (originally called the Himalayan Explorers Club) in 1996 after completing a six-month traverse of the entire Himalayan range, through Pakistan, India, and Nepal. Disturbed by the negative environmental and cultural impacts of tourism that he witnessed on this trip, Scott created IMEC, to minimize the deleterious effects of tourism on the fragile mountain environments and cultures. Currently, Scott is not active in IMEC. He designs and evaluates energy efficiency programs in the U.S.
NGO partners
The following NGO is a partner of IMEC. Together we realise different projects for porters and more, eg english lessons in 2025.
Yvonne Robertson (ROB) climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in 2013. “During the climb I was so deeply touched, and full of respect for the mountain crew that supported me, that I wanted to help them improve their lives. So on my return I founded ROB to do just that.”
