Our activities are designed to instill values and work ethic by demonstrating cause and effect, actions and consequences, and a "do-to-get" philosophy. In addition, they interrupt self-defeating patterns of behavior, bring issues to the surface, strengthen self-identity, self-esteem, resiliency, and positively impact family and peer relationships.

The group activities and initiatives involve team work, thus strengthening confidence and problem solving. One of the methodologies to develop these skills is the workshops. These workshops are held both in basecamp and on course in the mountains. The following is a brief summary of our workshops:

1. Dartboard Philosophy - An introduction to the dartboard. A tool used to help identify core issues, feelings, behaviors and their relationship.

2. Safe And Supportive - What defines a safe physical and emotional environment and each individual’s role within that particular environment?

3. Team Building - Experiential team building initiatives that develop tools for cooperation within a group.

4. Trust - Defining and developing trusting relationships.

5. Communication - Initiatives to develop and improve effective communication skills within relationships.

6. Problem-Solving - Skills for effective problem-solving within both group and individual situations.

The Alpine Tower Experience

The Alpine Tower is a one-day experience that enhances feelings of accomplishment and self-esteem and promotes safety within relationships. Students entrust their safety to others on both a physical and emotional level. Although individuals are responsible for the choices they make, they are supported and encouraged by their peers and staff to push beyond their perceived limits.

The Tower provides three program opportunities:
1. Group Problem-Solving

2. Individual Climbing

3. Partnering Events

Technical Tidbits

· The Tower measures 55 feet high and is certified by Alpine Tower, Inc.

· Certified staff facilitates the Tower Experience.

· There are 18 Group Problem-Solving Initiatives available within the base of the Tower.

· There are 26 Route/Event Options for climbing the Tower.

· 18 students can participate at one time. There are 3 belay benches for 6 students at each bench. A maximum of 6 climbers can climb simultaneously.

Ascent's program is designed to teach students a variety of life's lessons in the field. A student receives instruction in the following areas:

- 90 Hours of physical education (climbing, hiking, wood cutting, and calisthenics);

- 40 Hours of cooking and kitchen cleaning duties;

- 120 Hours of group and individual counseling;

- 80 Hours of wilderness training;

- 60 Hours of letter and journal writing.