AUTISM SERVICES Ascendigo Autism Services Amy Grogan, President & CEO The Face of PHOTO CREDIT: JENNY FOLMAN PHOTOGRAPHY F or more than 20 years, Ascendigo Autism Services has redefined what’s possible for youth, teens, and adults on the autism spectrum. Founded in 2004 as Extreme Sports Camp by Sallie and Tom Bernard—to give their son the chance to experience the thrill and benefits of the Colorado outdoors—Ascendigo has grown into a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving individu- als across the lifespan. Each year, 225 lives are enriched by Ascendigo’s programs. Summer Adventures Camp welcomes participants from across the U.S. and abroad, including 22 new families in 2025. Winter Adventures provides training for ski professionals and adaptive, private ski lessons for many children and adults. Amy Grogan, President & CEO, brings extensive nonprofit leadership, she has held various executive roles with mis- sion-driven organizations and has a proven track record for leading dynamic teams that are well positioned to deliver quality, impactful outcomes. “There is strong alignment between my personal commitments and professional ex- periences with the heart of Ascendigo’s mission,” she says. “We are diligently working to continue delivering quality programming, innovating services, and deepening our impact while forging lasting relationships with families and community partners.” Ascendigo’s new sensory-friendly facility located in the heart of Carbondale, CO features an ADA-compliant teach- ing kitchen, and spaces that foster learning, and indepen- dence. Life Enrichment courses help neurodivergent adults build skills, confidence, and community. Vocational pro- grams facilitate meaningful employment experiences and students gain pre-employment skills through local school partnerships where Ascendigo also provides individualized behavioral support and consultation. In 2026, Ascendigo will be expanding further, by providing research-driven therapeutic services for children, partner- ing to launch an on-site trade program for students, and creating inclusive residential options. Across every initia- tive, Ascendigo lives its mission: to empower people, inspire lives, and shatter expectations .
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Winter 2026 | Faces & Places ® 5
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