Internship Opportunities
Empower. Inspire. Shatter Expectations.
Welcome to Ascendigo’s Therapeutic Recreation Internship—an immersive, hands-on experience where you’ll support individuals on the autism spectrum through adventure, social engagement, and personal growth. Join us in the heart of Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley and discover how recreation can transform lives—including your own.
Your Next Adventure Starts Here. At Ascendigo, you’ll do more than complete an internship—you’ll be part of a community that believes in the power of recreation to change lives. Together, we’ll help individuals on the spectrum thrive while you gain the skills and confidence to launch your career in Therapeutic Recreation.
Apply today and join us in elevating the spectrum. Questions? Contact ctrsintern@ascendigo.org.
Why Intern with Ascendigo?
At Ascendigo, our mission is clear: elevate the spectrum by empowering people, inspiring lives, and shattering expectations. As an intern, you’ll live this mission every day while gaining professional skills, mentorship, and real-world experience that align with NCTRC requirements (14 weeks, 560 hours).
Our Vision
A community where individuals with autism thrive in the pursuit of a meaningful life.
Our Values
- Heart: Building meaningful connections for all abilities.
- Mind: Encouraging expansive thinking and inclusivity.
- Voice: Practicing honest communication and a strength-based philosophy.
Eligibility
This internship is designed for students enrolled in a Therapeutic Recreation degree program.
Requirements
Current CPR/First Aid certification
Completed background check
How to Apply
Internship Snapshot
- Format: Full-time, unpaid (14 weeks / 560 hours)
- Location: Carbondale, CO & the Roaring Fork Valley
- Housing: Rent-free, within walking distance of Ascendigo’s main facilities
- Supervision: Guided by a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) with weekly mentorship and feedback
Program Areas
You’ll gain experience across multiple program tracks, including:
- Life Enrichment (Adults): Daily living skills, creative expression, and adaptive extreme sports
- Outreach (Youth): Community-based recreation like hiking, skiing, and team-building activities
- Adventures (All Ages): Outdoor adaptive experiences, from rock climbing to kayaking.
What You’ll Do
As an Ascendigo intern, you’ll:
- Plan and implement therapeutic recreation interventions
- Document activities and track participant progress
- Participate in staff trainings and program evaluations
- Build meaningful relationships with participants and their families
Program Details
Click HERE to view Ascendigo’s Therapeutic Recreation Internship Manual.
