In operation since 1990, the Gateway Program is a collaborative welfare reform effort developed by Colorado Mountain College (CMC), the county department of social services, and the local Job Training Partnership Act provider. One component of the program is the Link Program, developed to prepare welfare recipients for enrollment in vocational training at CMC. These potential students are, for the most part, not ready to begin college full time. Many have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse; a history of poor educational performance; low self-esteem; problems with substance abuse; or low math and reading levels. In addition, many have difficulty with child care, attending classes, health or personal problems, and a general lack of preparation for college work. To prepare welfare recipients for college, Link offers a 10-week program of vocational assessment and career exploration, parenting skills, stress management, time management, study skills, a therapist-led support group, conflict resolution, communication skills, and, finally, a unique self-esteem building, risk-taking experience -- rock climbing. The voluntary 1-day climbing outing, during which participants climb a 120 foot near-vertical slab of rock, provides a feeling of overcoming fear and adversity that carries through to college work and life in general. In 1993-94, 73% of the 30 students who went on the climbing expedition enrolled in a vocational education program, with 82% completing their program. Personal narratives by former participants and instructors are included along with program descriptions and a Gateway organizational chart. (MAB)