WHAT WE DO
Since its founding in 2014, Ascend’s mission has been to empower girls through mountaineering-based leadership training and community service.
Ascend runs a holistic leadership development program based on sport and civic engagement. Participants gain knowledge and skills that will serve them throughout their lives. We focus on serving in places where women and girls have limited or no access to such opportunities. Each year, we train new instructors, building a pipeline of professional development in a women-helping-women approach.
Ascend participants train multiple days a week. We develop strong bodies and strong minds through experiential learning in physical fitness, community volunteering, mental health awareness, rock climbing, trekking and camping, and team-building activities. Professional development and internships create opportunity for growth, and alumnae stay connected with the program through the Ascend Alumnae Association, creating an Ascend network of accomplished and supportive women around the world.