Summer Camp Overview & Parent Handbook - Ascendigo
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Summer Camp Overview & Parent
Handbook
Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Summer Camp Overview
Welcome to Ascendigo Adventures! 3
Ascendigo Autism Services 3
2020 Camp Season and Sessions 4
Life at Camp 4
Sunday at Camp 4
Residing on Campus 4
Weekday Schedule 5
Weekday Core Sports & Activities 5
7 Day Program — Weekend Activities 6
Parent Handbook 7
Signing Up & Getting Ready 7
Registration involves four steps 7
What to Bring 7
Policies, Procedures, and Expectations 8
Parent Check In and Check Out 8
Parent Communication During Camp 8
Risk Management 9
Electronics at Camp 10
Client/Family & Staff 10
APPENDIX A: CAMPUS AND DORM ROOM MAP 11
APPENDIX B: CHECK IN/CHECK OUT SCHEDULE 12
APPENDIX C: CORE SPORT SCHEDULES 13
APPENDIX D: CAMPER PACKING LIST 17
Copyright 2017 © by Ascendigo Autism Services, Carbondale, Colorado
All right reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any
form or by any means — electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise — without the prior
written permission of Ascendigo Autism Services.
Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 2
Summer Camp Overview
SUMMER CAMP OVERVIEW Ascendigo Autism Services
Ascendigo Autism Services is a growing and dynamic non-
Welcome to profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals on the
Ascendigo Adventures!1 autism spectrum to lead increasingly rich, self-actualized, and
socially integrated lives. Our summer camp program is just one
Since 2004, Ascendigo’s Summer Adventures program has piece of a much larger effort.
provided many hundreds of children and adults on the autism
We offer a growing suite of services designed to enhance the
spectrum with a unique and rich summer camp experience.
lives of individuals living anywhere on the autism spectrum,
Formerly known as Extreme Sports Camp, Ascendigo is locat-
and their families. In addition to our Adventures programs, we
ed in Aspen’s Roaring Fork Valley. In keeping with the intense
work year round with children and adults providing personal
outdoor recreational ethos of the area, Ascendigo takes full
growth opportunities including outdoor recreation, behavioral
advantage of this beautiful environment by supporting our
therapy, school consultation, community integration, employ-
campers in learning and enjoying local outdoor sports and
ment supports, as well as full-time residential services.
many other activities.
Ascendigo Adventures, in addition to our Summer Camp,
Ascendigo offers a unique combination of fun, positivity, and
offers many other activities and programs throughout the year.
challenge to stretch our campers in all our sports and activity
A few of our current programs include:
instruction. The Ascendigo Method incorporates a Naturalistic
Developmental Behavioral Intervention (NDBI) approach in Winter Adventures— Private and group ski/snowboard lessons
teaching our campers to participate in sports, gain independ- and camps in partnership with Aspen Ski Company. We work
ence in skills, and grow socially. NDBIs are a group of evidence hand in hand with Aspen Ski Company to train Ski Pros in our
based methods utilizing the principles of applied behavior anal- Ascendigo Method.
ysis with developmental science. Our teaching and behavior
Adventure Club — Offering a wide range of outdoor activities
support methods have been developed in collaboration with
and social skill building for our local ASD friends ages 7-17. This
Diane Osaki, OTR, Founding Member of Thrive Autism Collab-
program operates almost year round. In the winter months we
orative in Denver, Colorado. Diane is a sought after expert in
team up with Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club to offer
autism and the Early Start Denver Model, a well-studied NDBI
inclusive group ski lessons.
for young children with autism.
Adventures Travel Camp Series— Based off of the ideals from
Many parents are surprised by what our campers (their chil-
our Summer Camp, this travel series takes us on the road
dren) are able to accomplish: wakeboarding behind a power-
across the country. We have hosted camps in Denver, CO;
boat, being an active crew member on a white water raft, rid-
Flagstaff, AZ; Austin, TX and will continue to expand our reach.
ing a horse, climbing a rock wall, completing an Alpine hike or
even riding a bike. Yet, we routinely observe campers making Ascendigo’s Summer Camp program is based at Colorado
progress in these competencies as they enjoy the fun and sup- Mountain College— Spring Valley Campus, Glenwood Springs,
portive context of Ascendigo Summer Adventures. Colorado. Located at 6800-foot elevation, seven miles from
town; CMC-Spring Valley campus offers incredible views of the
We are very excited for this year’s camp season. Each summer
Roaring Fork Valley, from Mount Sopris to the Continental Di-
we evolve, and are rewarded by the friendships, progress and
vide above Aspen. It is a comprehensive residential campus
confidence we see in our campers at the end of each session.
with residence halls, food service, gym, a student center, and
We are also excited for our new friends when their parents see
library. During the day, campers are transported in vans to vari-
the positive effect on their child and learn what they have ac-
ous sites for their activities.
complished.
1: For more complete program description, we strongly recommend
reading the Camp Overview first. This information helps to determine
your camper’s core sport.
Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 3
Summer Camp Overview
Camp Season & Sessions Camp Check In includes meeting our Camp Director, then
meeting with:
Ascendigo offers 9 weekly camp sessions at our Colorado
1. Camp Administrator
base, from June 14 through August 14. Camp session
(except Week 9) are offered as 5 to 7-day residential or a. Registration verification and sign-in
daytime camps. b. Ascendigo Coach assignment
We are based at the Colorado Mountain College Spring Valley
campus in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. c. Overnight Campers: Room and key assignment
Campers have the option to do any portion of the summer 2. Camp Nurse
from a single week to all of the sessions, based on availability. a. Health history review (inform Nurse of any prior
Neurotypical siblings and friends (NTSF) are welcome to par- injuries and/or physical conditions that might in-
ticipate in the Youth/Teen division (7-17). crease camper’s risk in any of our sports and ac-
Dates for Summer Camp sessions in Colorado: tivities)
Week 1: June 14-June 21 (Sunday-Sunday) b. Medications review and check-in
3. Ascendigo Coaches
Week 2: June 21-June 28 (Sunday-Sunday)
a. Behavioral History Review
Week 3: June 28-July 5 (Sunday-Sunday) b. Behavioral Plan Review (if camper has one)
c. Special concerns
Week 4: July 5-July 12 (Sunday-Sunday)
4. Sports Specialists
Week 5: July 12-July 19 (Sunday-Sunday) a. Meet with a representative from each core sport
b. Review any special camper interests and/or limi-
Week 6: July 19-July 26 (Sunday-Sunday)
tations
Week 7: July 26-August 2 (Sunday-Sunday) Following the intake session, we provide a barbeque for the
families and staff. After dinner, all daytime campers will leave
Week 8: August 2-August 7 (Friday-Friday) with their parent(s), and each residential camper will go with
their assigned staff member(s) to get set up in their quarters,
Week 9: August 10-August 14 (Monday-Friday) relax and get to know each other.
Life at Camp Residing On Campus
Sunday Check In1 All overnight campers will be staying on the 3rd floor of the
Each weekly session cycle begins on Sunday afternoons at CMC Residence hall, with children and adults in separate wings
4:00pm, when new campers arrive. This is an opportunity for (see APPENDIX A: CAMPUS AND DORM ROOM MAP). Each
our staff to meet our campers and their parent(s). It is an im- dorm room has its own private bathroom and shower. Beds are
portant step to make sure we gather as much information as twin sized, and we do not stack them as bunks. Most rooms
possible about each camper’s unique needs and preferences — will be double occupied with campers of the same gender and
information that our intake forms may not fully capture. age group— except in the case where the camper has an Aide,
the Aide would share that camper’s room.
1: Please refer to APPENDIX: B CHECK IN/CHECK OUT SCHEDULE
There is a limited availability of small refrigerators for rent
for details
from CMC at an additional cost. No other food appliances are
permitted in dorm rooms.
The Student Service Center (see APPENDIX A) is home to the
dining hall, our Sunday registration area, and the climbing
gym. Breakfast and dinner are provided in the dining hall from
Monday-Friday morning and evening. Sunday Check In and the
Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 4
Summer Camp Overview
End of Week BBQ lunch and Awards are provided on the out- spectrum.
door patio east of the dining hall, weather permitting.
Campers go to their core sport in the morning sessions Mon-
Lunches, weekend campus meals, and weekend meals are day through Wednesday, and all day on Thursday. This allows
provided from various vendors as appropriate to the day and each camper to progress in his/her sport and reach a level of
activity. competence that culminates in a celebration of his/her
achievements by the end of Thursday.
Weekday Schedule
Campers are also exposed to each of the other sports and ac-
During the week, each camper has an Ascendigo Coach with
tivities in the afternoon sessions on Monday through Wednes-
them to ensure they wake up, have a good breakfast, practice
day. This provides variety and a chance to enjoy the other pro-
daily hygiene and are prepared for the day’s activities. After
grams, though the focus in the rotation is more fun and experi-
breakfast, on Monday through Thursday, the campers and
ence than progression.
their coaches are transported to the site of their core sport. On
Monday through Wednesday, after lunch, the campers go to Each core sport can host a maximum of six (6) campers per
each one of their non-core sports for the afternoon. On Thurs- session, and availability is strictly “first come, first served” at
day the campers focus on their core sport for the entire day, registration. Core sports that are full will appear as “FULL” and
but the approach is more relaxed than Monday through cannot be chosen on the registration screen.
Wednesday. Thursday is the culmination of the camper’s core
Core Sport Program Descriptions
sport and a chance to enjoy and show off what he/she has
learned. River Program: Ascendigo’s location near the confluence of the
Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers provides terrific class 1-class
After the afternoon sports, campers return to campus for din-
3 river running opportunities throughout the summer. Those
ner and then evening activities such as biking, hiking, gym
who choose this program as a core sport learn paddling skills,
games, arts/crafts, and social integration.
river hydrodynam-
On Friday, the campers enjoy a relaxed morning of swimming ics, navigation,
or other preferred activities. Lunch is served at 12:00pm and teamwork and
we invite parent(s) to join this fun BBQ. An awards ceremony safety, and raft
follows at 1:00pm where Ascendigo staff get to share some of operation, while
their experiences with their campers and there is a short video experiencing the
with highlights from that camp week. Awards are given to each sensory-rich thrills
camper for their achievements. of whitewater.
Most campers pro-
Following the awards ceremony, campers who have finished
gress from passenger to active crewmember or even raft cap-
their stay, say their goodbyes to their new friends, and depart
tain, and some will be able to crew two-person
for home. Campers who are staying on for the 7-day program,
“duckies” (inflatable kayaks) or standup paddle board (SUPs),
begin prepping for their weekend excursion.
depending on river conditions.
Weekday Core Sports & Activities
Lake Program: Ascendigo offers a progression of motor-
Ascendigo’s primary weekday activities consist of our four core powered lake sports starting with riding in the boat, and then
sport programs. Current core sports include the River Program graduating, based on the capacity of the camper, to tubing,
(whitewater kayaking and rafting), the Lake Program knee boarding, and ultimately wakeboarding. Located at Rifle
(motorboat powered wake boarding, surfing, and tubing), the Gap, this is one of our most popular programs.
Alpine Program (rock climbing, hiking), and the Ranch Pro-
gram (horseback riding and other ranch activities and skills) —
see descriptions below. During the week, each camper will ex-
perience each of the sports in afternoon sessions, while focus-
ing on his or her chosen core sport in the mornings. In the regis-
tration process, each camper will choose a core sport from one of
our four primary programs.
Each sport is led by an experienced, certified sport specialist
who is also experienced in supporting campers on the autism
Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 5
Summer Camp Overview
Ranch Program: The therapeutic benefits of being around and .
riding horses are well-known, especially for individuals with
Weekends: The weekend activities include campers going to
autism. As-
the pool, biking (improvement lessons and day trips), hiking
cendigo’s Ranch
(with lunch at high scenic points). Weekend activities begin
Program provides a
Friday afternoon with biking on local trails or skill-based biking
tremendous oppor-
on the CMC campus. Saturday is a full day of activities and
tunity for exposure
Sundays are a half-day.
and skill-building.
Immersed in the The weekend also offers opportunities for campers to attend
ranch environment, some paid attractions nearby, depending on the weekend and
campers are ex- that group of campers. Some possibilities include Carbondale’s
posed to horse- Mountain Fair (July 28-30), Glenwood Vaudeville Revue and
manship, animals Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.
and activities that
are fun and challenging, while they develop competence and
confidence in important foundational life skills. Our ranch is
located in Missouri Heights, about 15 minutes from CMC—
Spring Valley Campus, high above the Roaring Fork Valley.
Alpine Program: Our primary alpine activities are rock climbing
and hiking. Based on the capabilities and interests of each ses-
sion’s campers, the progressions are designed to bring each
individual toward his or her highest capability in climbing, rope
skills, hiking, and appreciation for the alpine environment. The
climbing aspect of the program progresses from the climbing
gym and two ropes cours-
es (low and high), to rock
walls near Rifle Gap and
elsewhere in the valley,
depending on conditions.
Other fun and immersive
experiences in the Alpine
Program, in addition to
the ropes courses, include slacklining for balance and confi-
dence and a rope swing to assist the camper in gaining comfort
in wearing a harness.
7 Day Program— Weekend Activities
After the Friday Awards Ceremony, 7-day campers participate
in the weekend program.
.
2: http://www.huts.org/The_Huts/shrine.php
Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 6
Parent Handbook
anxiety level diminishes greatly after the parent has gone and
PARENT HANDBOOK1 the camper is with his/her new friends and staff.
Signing Up & Getting Ready Our advice to parents is the same as for most overnight camps:
Registration for camp sessions is available through our website • Talk with your camper periodically before the camp, and
at www.ascendigo.org. Online registration and credit card pro- to the extent you are able, discuss any fear or concerns
cessing is provided by Active.com. your camper has.
Detailed registration instructions are available at our registra- • We strongly discourage parent visits during a session for
tion portal, and support is available at registra- our overnight campers. Exceptions can be made for camp-
tion@ascendigo.org, or call us Monday through Friday be- ers staying for multiple sessions, but please discuss this
tween 9:00am and 4:00pm MST. beforehand with our Adventures Director to ensure it is in
the best interest of the camper.
• Before June 6, please call our Administrative office at
970- 927-3143 What to Bring
• From June 6-August 5, please call our Camp Administra- Please refer to APPENDIX D: CAMPER PACKING LIST to view
tive Office on campus at 970-704-6161 our recommended packing list.
Registration involves four steps Camper Cash Policy
To sign your camper up for Ascendigo’s Summer Camp, we will We recommend providing $50 per week discretionary cash for
ask you to incidentals or special circumstances. Any cash will be collected
1. Provide basic camper and parent information a check in and tracked by the Camp Administrator and Coach-
es. Unused cash will be returned at the end of camp.
2. Select the camper’s core sport from one of the available
four primary programs: River, Lake, Alpine, or Ranch (also Prescriptions, OTC Medications, & Supplements
known as “Groups” on the registration system). Our campers often have many medications and supplements
3. Approve our basic contract and releases to take daily, or multiple times per day. As our camp continues
to grow, we want to ensure that our campers continue to re-
4. Provide 50% down payment for the chosen session(s) by
ceive safe and accurate medication administration.
credit card.
All prescriptions, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, and
Completing all four steps above is required to hold your camp-
supplements must be in their original packaging and will be
er’s spot(s) and selected core sport(s). More complete financial delivered to our camp nurse at Check In.
information and options are available through the registration
portal. Aides at Camp
Completing registration requires that all forms and waivers be Parents may provide an Aide to assist their campers in the af-
completed at least three (3) weeks prior to the start of camp. ternoon after return to campus, through the night and to
Please note: a doctor must sign the medical form each year. breakfast. Aides are expected to share a dorm room with their
Camper’s must submit a signed, current form or they will NOT camper. Special pricing is included in the registration system to
be allowed at camp per Colorado Regulations. pay for the Aide’s room and board.
Many campers, especially campers coming to overnight camp Due to space limitations, the weekday core sports are not de-
for the first time, are anxious about the transition. We also of- signed to accommodate Aide participation.
ten see that the parent(s) are even more anxious. Camper’s Aide may participate in weekend Hut Trips with their camper,
behaviors often increase around their parent(s) and they react provided they understand that, due to the hut capacity limita-
to the parent’s emotional state. In most cases, the camper’s tions, they are taking the spot of an Ascendigo Coach and must
act as a team member to help support the entire group, and
1: the word “Parent” herein refers to the person legally authorized to model cooperative camping behaviors for the campers.
agree to the terms under which Ascendigo provides camp services.
While a camper is in Ascendigo’s care, an Ascendigo Coach will
Depending on circumstances, this could be a parent, a legal guardian,
be assigned to that camper, and the Aide may accompany the
or the camper her/himself.
assigned coach to assist the camper with her or his needs.
Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 7
Parent Handbook
During lights out, the Aide may deliver whatever support is the night, per parent choice. This section explains the routines
needed for the camper but must contact the on duty supervi- for day campers. If your child is a Residential camper, please
sor if an emergency occurs. skip this section.
Policies, Procedures, and Expectations Drop-off on Campus
Parents wanting their camper to reduce a routine of using a • Please make sure your camper arrives on time each day.
preferred activity, such as recreational use of computer or tab- • Please provide a packed lunch for each day.
let, or to improve their diet, should do so over time outside
camp. Please do not suddenly take away, or expect us to take • Many of our activities involve travel from campus to the
away, a preferred activity or routinely eaten food that happen location of the activity. If you arrive on campus more than
to be available on campus. The transition to camp may already 15 minutes late, we cannot guarantee transport from cam-
prove stressful and adding additional change to routines is not pus to the day’s activity. If you are able to transport the
a recipe for a successful experience. camper promptly to the activity venue yourself, we will
attempt to integrate him or her into the activity, if it can
Parent Check In & Check Out
be done without disrupting the group.
You child’s safety and security are our highest priority. Only
• If you arrive more than 30 minutes late, or if it is not practi-
those adults listed on the Parent Authorization Form for
cal to integrate the late-arriving camper into any of the
Camper Pick Up will be allowed to drop off, pick-up, or sign out
day’s activities, we regret that we may not be able to ac-
a client. Parents or Legally Authorized Guardians are expected
commodate the camper that day. We cannot offer a re-
to drop off and pick up at the CMC Spring Valley Campus at the
fund for the day when this occurs.
start and end of each 5-day or 7-day session for overnight
campers, or at the beginning and end of each camp day for Pick-ups
daytime campers. • Please pick your day camper up on time.
Please review APPENDIX B: CHECK IN/CHECK OUT SCHED- • Please call us if you will be late. We understand that delays
ULE for specific Check In and Check Out times. Depending on occur due to traffic, accident, weather, etc., and Ascendi-
our staff’s other commitments, and if you call us requesting a go will allow a 15-minute grace period for such delays,
late Check In due to unforeseen circumstances, we will at- providing you call to let us know.
tempt to keep enough key staff available for Check In until
6:00pm but cannot guarantee that parents will have an oppor- • After 30 minutes, staff will notify the Adventures Director
tunity to talk with all of the staff. or a supervisory level staff member who will advise staff on
where to go as they continue to wait.
Ascendigo will NOT assume care for any camper:
• After 90 minutes, we will call other emergency contacts
• After 6:00pm on Sunday, listed. As a last resort we will call the local Child or Adult
• Who has not provided a current medical form signed by a Protection Services, as appropriate, to report the situa-
physician. tion.
• For whom all required forms and waivers have not been • Ascendigo will not release a camper to a parent or caregiv-
completed, or er who we reasonably believe to be impaired (under the
influence of alcohol or drugs), until the Adventures Direc-
• For whom we have not received completed payment.
tor personally determines that such a release does not put
Campers who do not complete Check In on Sunday for any of the client at risk. Ascendigo reserves the right to contact
the above reasons may arrange with Camp Administration to local law enforcement or available protective services in
return Monday. such case.
Important notes for parents and caregivers of Day Campers Parent Communications During Camp…
Day Campers need to check in on Sundays at the CMC— ...With Staff
Spring Valley Campus. Exceptions to this can be made with
We strongly encourage parents to take the time to communi-
prior notice.
cate with their camper’s Coach at Check In and at the end of
Some campers will attend only during the day and not spend their stay. You will learn much about your camper’s experience
Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 8
Parent Handbook
and progress if you take advantage of this opportunity before Risk Management
you hit the road.
Our second priority at Summer Camp is fun, followed by per-
Please bear in mind that your camper might have several sonal development. However, our primary concern is manag-
coaches during the week acting as a team. While we try to ing risks. There is no such thing as perfect safety, especially
have the same people meeting you at the beginning and end of with the risks inherent in outdoor, sport and integrated com-
each session, sometimes work schedules or other matters pre- munity activities.
vent it. Therefore, the coach you meet at Check In may be a
Emergency Policy: Ascendigo maintains and continuously up-
different member of your camper’s team than whom you meet
grades our Emergency Protocols. A link to our current Emer-
with at the end of the session. If you wish to contact your
gency Procedures and Protocols can be found on the Summer
camper’s Coach, the preferred method is text. Our staff is in-
Camp home page. In general, our Supervisors and Directors are
structed not to answer calls during activities, and to respond to
directed to:
texts only when it is safe to do so and when it will not disrupt
the focus and flow of their activities. Additionally, we frequent- • Intervene between the person or persons at risk and the
ly go to areas with limited-to-no cell coverage. We realize that source of the risk,
many parents are anxious about their campers, but staff mem- • Anyone who requires immediate first aid will receive rapid
ber will most likely not be available until they get back to cam- and appropriate transport to emergency care,
pus in the late afternoon.
• Contact the Adventures Director or President/CEO as soon
...With Campers as it is practicable,
Live parent contact with a camper often increases homesick-
• Assure that all other campers continue to have adequate
ness and behaviors and can distract attention from the activity
supervision and care while the staff dealing with the situa-
and learning. Although we occasionally make exceptions based
tion has their attention focused elsewhere.
on how a given camper reacts, we typically discourage phone
calls, emails, or texts during the session. Additionally, emailing • More minor illnesses or injuries, the Ascendigo Nurse will
and texting tends to increase campers’ awareness of, and de- be contacted and will treat and assess for further medical
mand for, screen time. Please remember, there is no cell ser- treatment.
vice at many of our activity venues anyway. We understand The Adventures Director or Executive Director will contact the
your concern— please be confident that your child is in good designated camper emergency contact as soon as possible,
hands! while personally seeing to the care of the injured or ill person.
Mail & Packages We will always attempt, with the support of our BCBA and oth-
On the other hand, we do encourage snail mail and care pack- er experienced behavioral staff, to come up with approaches to
ages. Unlike live communication, letters and packages, deliv- mitigate each particular camper’s aggressive and/or self injuri-
ered at appropriate times, can help a camper feel “at home” ous behaviors, including identifying antecedents and triggers,
here at camp, without creating homesickness or distracting using redirection, and changing up communication protocols.
from their experience. Please be aware that if your camper is Campers with a known history of aggressive episodes shall be
with us for a single week, there may not be time for mail or separated from other campers by, at a minimum, an inter-
packages to reach us. We do suggest limiting sweets and food posed staff member, in activities where participants are physi-
in your care packages, especially if the items contradict the cally close to one another.
diet preferences in the camper’s intake forms. Ascendigo seeks to accommodate everyone on the autism
Please send mail and packages to our Administrative Office in spectrum, provided they are sufficiently medically stable to
Carbondale (see below), rather than directly to the CMC— participate in our program. To that end, we will always at-
Spring Valley Campus. We make at least one run each day be- tempt, with the support of our BCBA and other experienced
tween the office and the campus, so it is easy and quick, while staff, to come up with approaches to mitigate each particular
mail through CMC’s mail processing system can be unreliable. camper’s aggressive and/or self-injurious behaviors, including
identifying antecedents and triggers, using redirection, and
Ascendigo Autism Services
changing up communication protocols.
Attn: 2019 Summer Camp
818 Industry Place, Carbondale, CO, 81623
Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 9
Parent Handbook
However, Ascendigo reserves the right to immediately with- we look for, we identify specialty skills in physical and outdoor
draw any camper from Summer Camp in the event that the education, special education, and mountain sports. We train all
camper acts out uncontrollably against campus, vendor, or of our staff continuously to increase their effectiveness and
public property or employees such that Ascendigo’s continued professionalism.
working relationship with a needed partner is put at risk.
Trained and caring staff are both our greatest and most expen-
The Ascendigo Nurse or a physician that examines an ill camp- sive resource. This is a key factor in differentiating our services
er advises us that the camper is likely to be contagious or un- from low-intensity/low-progress programs. It is also why our
likely to be able to recover in time to complete the session. In programs and services are as expensive as they are to deliver.
this case, Ascendigo will endeavor to find another suitable ses-
Client/Family & Staff
sion for your camper.
Staff may not independently provide any services to clients
Electronics at Camp
which are available to clients within Ascendigo or provide any
We attempt to reduce the use of electronics as much as possi- support for ASD clients outside of Ascendigo hours, unless
ble for each camper during Summer Camp. Our supervisors through Ascendigo. Exceptions require the express written
have some discretion in this in order to meet each camper permission of the President & CEO. Parents agree not to at-
where they are, and move forward from there, especially when tempt to hire Ascendigo staff either directly or indirectly for
a camper relies on an electronic device for communication. any autism or client care related services.
Here are our camp policies regarding electronics:
Ascendigo spends a great deal of time and resources to recruit,
• Communication assistive devices are always welcome and develop, and retain the most capable staff possible. We under-
should be in water resistant cases if needed while partici- stand that our staff members are attractive candidates to fami-
pating in a water sport. lies who would like to personally hire staff directly to help their
family full or part time. However, allowing parents to hire peo-
• Our goal is to minimize screen time to only what is neces-
ple from our team has proven to negatively affect our ability to
sary for each camper’s needs.
take care of all our clients.
• To set up your camper and our staff for success, we strong-
We therefore prohibit our staff from providing direct autism
ly encourage you to begin reducing your camper’s screen
related services outside of Ascendigo. Examples of prohibited
time at home, prior to camp.
activities include being a roommate of a client, taking a leave
• We do have scheduled free time where campers may ac- from Ascendigo to work for a family, or entering into any other
cess Wi-Fi. conflict of interest.
• Phones can pose a distraction in our immersive outdoor Ascendigo staff specifically agree in their employment con-
activities and learning environment. Many of these envi- tracts to be subject to restrictive covenants which put them at
ronments put phones at high risk for damage or loss and both risk of termination and litigation if they provide direct
some of our activity venues lack cellular coverage. If a services to any current or former client of Ascendigo while on
camper can forego bringing a phone during a session, so staff, or within a year of working with Ascendigo.
much the better.
• If a camper must bring a phone on an activity, we will take
reasonable precautions to keep the phone protected, but
Ascendigo cannot be responsible if the phone ends up
damaged, lost, or at the bottom of the lake!
Staff
Our staff is dedicated to the well-being of the families and
camper in our care. We constantly recruit the best team mem-
bers we can find that align with our vision and who can contrib-
ute to and increase the scope and quality of services we pro-
vide.
In addition to the ASD care, experience, training, and intuition
Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 10APPENDIX A: CAMPUS AND DORM MAPS Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 11
APPENDIX B: CHECK IN/CHECK OUT SCHEDULE
Below you will find the Check In and Check Out times for Summer Camp. Please note that Week 8 is a different schedule then
Weeks 1-7. Check In and Check Out location will be at the Residence Hall/Student Services of Colorado Mountain College’s Spring
Valley Campus (3000 CO Road 114, Glenwood Springs, CO, 81601).
Week 1 – Week 8
Lake Alpine River Ranch
Check In
Time
(Sunday) 4:00pm 4:15pm 4:30pm 4:45pm
Day Campers 5-Day Residential 7-Day Residential
Friday Friday Sunday
Check Out Time
Lunch- 12:00-1:00pm Lunch- 12:00-1:00pm 12:30pm
Awards- 1:00pm-2:00pm Awards- 1:00-2:00pm *No Awards Ceremony
* No Awards on Sunday but 7-day Residential families are welcome to come to the Awards Ceremony on Friday.
Week 9
Check In Time Residential Day Camp
Check In
Time 8:00am 9:00am
(Monday)
Day Campers 5-Day Residential
Friday Friday
Check Out Time
Lunch- 12:00-1:00pm Lunch- 12:00-1:00pm
Awards- 1:00pm-2:00pm Awards- 1:00-2:00pm
Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 12APPENDIX C: CORE SPORTS SCHEDULES Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 13
APPENDIX C: CORE SPORTS SCHEDULES Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 14
APPENDIX C: CORE SPORTS SCHEDULES Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 15
APPENDIX C: CORE SPORTS SCHEDULES Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 16
APPENDIX D: CAMPER PACKING LIST
It’s never too early to start thinking about what to pack! If you have questions, it’s a good idea to contact us early.
RESIDENTIAL LIFE
Participant will be living on campus in a dorm with up to 1 other person. Each room has 2 twin beds, 2 small closets and a bath-
room with a shower. The dorm rooms all have A/C. No pets are allowed in the dorms.
Average Summer Temperatures:
The average temperature in the summer during the day is around 80 degrees (we typically have several days near 100 de-
grees). There is a drastic change in temperature from being in the sun vs. the shade. The average temp in the summer during the
night is around 50-60 degrees but can drop lower.
Note: Temperatures can vary dramatically depending on where the activity is located (elevation/climate changes within 50-mile
radius), so bring and dress in layers!
BEDDING
Sheet set - twin size bed
Blanket or sleeping bag
Pillow & pillowcase
Mattress pad - single bed (Optional)
PERSONAL HYGIENE
Important: If traveling by airplane, please pack all personal hygiene items in Ziploc bags, to prevent bursting inside luggage.
Hairbrush/comb
Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo/conditioner, deodorant, lip balm w/ sunscreen)
Vitamins (must be on med form and signed by physician)
Medications – with dosing instructions in original RX bottle (must be listed on Med form)
Sunscreen -you will need this EVERYDAY!
Razor – teens/adults
Feminine hygiene products
Contacts/glasses
GEAR
Baseball cap or full brim hat
Sunglasses and sunglass strap for water sports
1-liter water bottle (for daily hydration)
Day pack (small backpack to carry water, beach towel, change of clothes, snacks, sunscreen, etc. to different daily activities.)
Bath towel and beach towel or quick dry pack towel (for lake and river sports)
Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 17APPENDIX D: CAMPER PACKING LIST
CLOTHING
Rain Jacket (waterproof)
Long sleeved fleece hoodie or pullover (cool mornings & evenings)
2 pairs long pants
2 pairs of shorts
3 – 5 short sleeved shirts
Pajamas
Underwear and socks (include at least 2 pairs of hiking socks)
Bathing Suit: Girls- 2 one-piece bathing suits (racing-type suits) Boys- 2 pairs board shorts
Rash guard top –Light colored long sleeved (protection from the mountain elements)
Swim Goggles (Optional)
SHOES
1 pair – sneakers or low top hiking shoes (hiking and daily wear)
1 pair – sandals or water shoes – must have heel straps (no flip flops) for lake & river sports
TRAVEL
Driving: follow directions to get to
Colorado Mountain College
Spring Valley Campus
3000 County Road 114
Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Flying into Denver:
You can take the Colorado Mountain Express (CME) from the Denver Airport to the base of the Colorado Mountain College
where we can pick you up. Please arrange with us in advance. Other nearby airports: Aspen, Eagle, Grand Junction.
If you have questions, please call or email, we’d be happy to help!
970-927-3143 or info@ascendigo.org
Ascendigo Autism Services ∙ 818 Industry Place ∙ Carbondale CO 81623 ∙ info@ascendigo.org ∙ 970-927-3143 ∙ ascendigo.org 18You can also read
