About Us
Our mission is to elevate the spectrum by empowering people, inspiring lives and shattering expectations.
Ascendigo was founded on the belief that individuals on the autism spectrum should have access to a full and rich life experience, including the activities and experiences that their neurotypical peers enjoy. Exposure to natural environments and recreation in the outdoors have enormous benefits for those with autism. In 2004, Sallie Bernard, our founder and mom to an autistic son began Extreme Sports Camp, later known as Ascendigo, a 501(c)3 nonprofit in Colorado’s beautiful Roaring Fork Valley.
Our Vision
A community where individuals with autism can thrive in the pursuit of a meaningful and purposeful life.
Our Values
Heart – How we feel. We offer a safe, welcoming space, providing meaningful connection for people of all abilities and encouraging the best in all of us.
Mind – How we think. We promote expansive thinking and a culture of inclusivity, resulting in possibility, learning, and growth.
Voice – How we connect. We use honest communication, open minds, and a strength-based philosophy recognizing and encouraging the unique abilities of all.
Our Goal
Ascendigo’s goal is to integrate people with autism into community life recreationally and socially, whether through adventure sports, development of life skills, compatible employment, and community engagement. With our proprietary Ascendigo Way curriculum, the organization educates service providers, caregivers, and community members about autism and autism supports.
Meeting a Growing Need
As the prevalence of autism continues to grow (1 in 36 children according to the latest CDC estimates), so has the need for services. Since our start, Ascendigo has expanded to provide children and adults with holistic supports including recreational therapy, applied behavior analysis, speech and language, at-home and in-school services, life skills, employment coaching, and more. Today, Ascendigo serves over 225 individuals with autism annually and provides resources and service to families throughout the country. By focusing on person-centered care, we recognize the unique interests, strengths and challenges of each individual.
Strategic Plan for 2024-2026
2024 is Ascendigo’s 20th anniversary year and we are excited to share our 2024-2026 Strategic Plan which includes Ascendigo’s priorities and objectives which will guide the organization’s work over the next three years.
2024 Mission Film
