Ascendigo, a local nonprofit in the Roaring Fork Valley, is expanding its services to cater to adults with disabilities, aiming to offer more opportunities for them to engage with their community and discover their passions. The organization’s new initiative, Ascendigo After Hours, is designed to enrich the lives of adults with disabilities beyond regular working hours, allowing them to participate in various activities and experiences typically enjoyed by neurotypical individuals.
Kelly Hoffman, the life enrichment and outreach program director at Ascendigo, emphasized the importance of providing services that extend beyond the conventional ‘9 to 5’ timeframe, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have equal access to community engagement. The core mission of Ascendigo is to integrate people with disabilities into the community, fostering a sense of belonging and joy in the Roaring Fork Valley.
One of the key components of the new programming is the Cook & Connect series, a four-week program held on Tuesday nights, where participants come together to prepare and share meals, learn about nutrition, and partake in activities such as movie nights and board games. Additionally, Ascendigo After Hours introduces the Thursday Throwdown initiative, offering group outings to local events like rodeos, concerts, and scenic picnics, expanding the scope of recreational opportunities available to participants.
While Ascendigo has traditionally focused on extreme sports and outdoor activities, the organization’s decision to incorporate diverse passions and hobbies reflects a deliberate effort to broaden the range of experiences offered. By partnering with experts and agencies throughout the valley, Ascendigo ensures that participants receive tailored support and guidance, enabling them to explore new interests and engage in activities that align with their preferences.
In addition to the ongoing programming, Ascendigo is launching nine-week courses in collaboration with local partners such as the Carbondale Clay Center, offering activities like clay making, pickleball, and jewelry making. These courses are designed to provide participants with a structured learning environment where they can develop skills, interact with peers, and discover hidden talents, contributing to their overall personal growth and well-being.
As the organization looks forward to expanding its reach and impact within the community, the team at Ascendigo, including Kevin Emory, the life enrichment and outreach assistant program director, is enthusiastic about the positive outcomes that the enhanced programming will bring. By fostering a sense of community, empowerment, and inclusivity, Ascendigo continues to play a vital role in supporting adults with disabilities in the Roaring Fork Valley.
Key Takeaways:
– Ascendigo’s new initiative, Ascendigo After Hours, aims to provide adults with disabilities in the Roaring Fork Valley with enhanced opportunities for community engagement and personal growth.
– The organization’s diverse programming, including the Cook & Connect series and Thursday Throwdown outings, offers participants a range of activities to explore and enjoy.
– Through partnerships with local experts and agencies, Ascendigo ensures that individuals with disabilities receive tailored support to pursue their interests and hobbies.
– The introduction of nine-week courses in collaboration with community partners adds a structured learning component to the programming, allowing participants to develop skills and engage in creative pursuits.
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