Ascendigo Autism Services to host 14th annual gala

Ascendigo Autism Services is set to bring a night of inspiration and advocacy to Aspen with its annual gala, Ascendigo Blue Aspen, on Saturday, Feb. 15 at the Hotel Jerome.

For two decades, the Carbondale-based nonprofit has been a lifeline for individuals with autism and their families in the Roaring Fork Valley and beyond, fostering understanding, inclusion, and independence for individuals of all ages on the autism spectrum. 

What began in 2004 as a small initiative has grown into a comprehensive organization offering year-round recreational programs, adult life skills training, and early intervention services for children.

“Ascendigo was first founded by Sallie Bernard, and essentially, she founded this program for her son, who has autism,” said Kelly Hoffman, director of Outreach and Life Enrichment for Ascendigo. “She wanted a place for her son to participate in camp life. There was nothing in the valley that could support her son’s needs. As her son grew up, so did Ascendigo.”

The organization’s work extends beyond direct services. Its team trains educators, caregivers, and law enforcement to create a more supportive and inclusive community. 

Hoffman noted that Ascendigo’s outreach program supports local schools and provides therapy for individuals with autism.

“Both our adult program and outreach programs are in place to serve the Carbondale and Roaring Fork Valley community,” she said. “Something that I do think is special is that we do take private insurance, and we also take Medicaid, so it is accessible to many.”

Recreational programming remains one of Ascendigo’s most visible contributions, offering outdoor adventures tailored to individuals with autism. 

Winter adaptive sports programs build confidence and physical skills, while summer activities include water sports, rock climbing, and equestrian therapy. These experiences foster both independence and meaningful social connections.

For adults, Ascendigo’s life skills program provides structured support, from job training to social engagement. The organization has also expanded into education with Ascendigo Academy, an online curriculum offering specialized learning opportunities. 

Looking ahead, Hoffman said the nonprofit is moving into a new space and expanding its programs, with the gala playing a key role in those efforts.

“We are going to start some focus groups in our adult program where we are going to offer some clubs and courses for adults with disabilities in the valley,” she said. “What we are trying to build is a place and a home for people with disabilities in our community who do not necessarily have those friendships or community partners.”

The organization is also planning to provide applied behavioral analysis (ABA) services for school-aged children and behavioral support within the Roaring Fork and Garfield Re-2 school districts.

“Our philosophy is about working on what matters, bringing the joy, and really respecting the individual person and meeting them for who they are,” Hoffman said.

This year’s gala will feature a keynote address from Dr. Temple Grandin, the world-renowned author, speaker, and autism advocate whose groundbreaking work has reshaped autism awareness and animal science. 

Ascendigo Chief Development Officer Victoria MacFarlane said that this is Ascendigo’s 14th annual gala, and all the proceeds go directly to Ascendigo. 

“This is our 21st anniversary year and our 14th annual gala. This year, our theme is color, where we are really celebrating all the colors of the spectrum,” Macfarlane said. “We are highlighting our guest speaker, who is Temple Grandin, who is a very well-known name in the autism world.”

Grandin, a professor of animal science at Colorado State University, has revolutionized livestock handling facility design and become one of the most influential voices in neurodiversity. 

Diagnosed with autism, she has dedicated her career to changing perceptions and opening doors for individuals on the spectrum.

The gala, underwritten by the Olitsky Family Foundation, will include a live and silent auction, dinner, and Grandin’s keynote presentation. She will also be available during the cocktail hour for an exclusive book signing, with Aspen’s Explore Booksellers offering copies for purchase and donating proceeds to Ascendigo.

“We are incredibly honored to have Dr. Temple Grandin join us for this special evening,” said Sallie Bernard, founder and board chair of Ascendigo. “Her contributions to the autism community are immeasurable, and her presence will be truly inspiring for our guests.”

Proceeds from the gala will support Ascendigo’s programs, which provide recreation, life skills training, and autism advocacy throughout the region. 

Sponsorship support from organizations, including the Olitsky Family Foundation, ZIGZAG Aspen, and numerous local businesses, has helped make the event possible. 

Tickets are available at http://www.ascendigo.org/blue.