Completed in 2017, the Wilshire Grand seemed to rise almost overnight, transforming the downtown skyline with its sail-shaped crown and spire. At 1,100 feet tall, it surpassed the U.S. Bank Tower to become the tallest building in Downtown Los Angeles, symbolizing a bold new era for the city. Now, that same vertical landmark becomes the stage for a powerful community climb benefiting the American Lung Association.
On February 22, participants won’t just be climbing stairs — they’ll be climbing into Los Angeles history. The inaugural Fight For Air Climb Los Angeles will take over the iconic Wilshire Grand Center, giving nearly 1,000 Angelenos the chance to scale the tallest building west of the Mississippi — all in the name of lung health.
A Climb with Meaning
The Fight For Air Climb marks the organization’s first indoor building climb in Los Angeles since COVID and stands as its largest annual fundraiser. Participants will tackle hundreds of stairs inside the Wilshire Grand, cheered on by friends, family, and supporters, all united by one mission: saving lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy, and research.
But one of the most powerful and anticipated moments of the day belongs to the firefighters.
Firefighters Climbing in Full Gear
Local firefighters will climb in full turnout gear — helmets, oxygen tanks, and equipment that can weigh more than 50 pounds — turning the stairwell into a moving tribute. Their participation honors those impacted by lung disease while underscoring a critical reality: firefighters face increased risks of respiratory illness due to smoke exposure, toxic fumes, and hazardous environments encountered in the line of duty.
Their involvement is supported in part by the California Firefighters Foundation, reinforcing the shared commitment between the firefighting community and lung health advocacy. Watching firefighters ascend the tallest tower in the city — step after demanding step — adds both gravity and inspiration to an already powerful event.
A Skyline Landmark with a New Purpose
When the Wilshire Grand Center officially opened in 2017, it reshaped Downtown Los Angeles’ identity. Its distinctive spire broke the city’s long-standing flat-roofed skyline tradition, instantly becoming a defining architectural feature visible from miles away. Beyond its height, the building symbolized resurgence and ambition in DTLA.
Now, instead of corporate offices and hotel guests alone, its stairwells will echo with footsteps driven by purpose. The climb transforms the skyscraper from an architectural marvel into a living, breathing monument to resilience — fitting for an event focused on something as essential as the ability to breathe.
Community Backing
The event is proudly supported by sponsors including Waymo, City of Hope, ABC7, UCLA Health, and Cedars-Sinai — organizations that reflect the citywide investment in health, innovation, and community impact.
An Exciting Return
There’s an undeniable energy to climbing a skyscraper — especially one that defines the skyline. From the first step to the final landing, participants will feel the thrill of ascent, the burn in their legs, and the shared determination of a crowd united for something larger than themselves.
On February 22, the tallest building in Downtown Los Angeles won’t just stand tall — it will be climbed for a cause.
