Nonprofit gets kids outdoors

Giving all kids an opportunity to learn about the outdoors is the focus of Project ASCENT, a new non-profit based in Thompson Falls. Project ASCENT was created by Rob Christensen, the K-8 counselor at Thompson Falls schools. Christensen has been organizing camps and activities for kids, and now has enlisted the help of other outdoor enthusiasts. The group recently received 501(c)3 status.

The group’s purpose, according to their website, is “to offer recreational opportunities and outdoor education primarily to underprivileged youth and veterans.” The goal is to advance personal responsibility, character development, health and well-being, civic engagement, leadership development and stewardship through adventure-based experiential education.

The board consists of Kate Baxter, Ron Hawkinson, Angelo Alderete, Jase Miller, Doug Padden, Andrea Fernandez and Christensen. The board meets once a month to discuss fundraising and camps. Miller, a teacher at Thompson Falls, said that Project Ascent provides opportunities that most kids don’t have. For kids that live in town, many don’t have the opportunity to leave and explore the outdoors, he said.

Project ASCENT provides day camps and multiple-day experiences, with board members and other group leaders teaching basic wilderness, safety and camping skills, along with lessons in kayaking, fly fishing and other activities.

Anita Brown, manager of the Rimrock Lanes in Thompson Falls, is helping with Project ASCENT’s fundraising efforts. Brown said she grew up camping with her grandparents, and is excited about helping kids learn about the outdoors.

The organization is planning a fundraiser Saturday, April 14, at the Clark Fork Valley Elks Lodge in Thompson Fallss. The fundraiser will feature a live auction, silent auction, Cuban dinner and other events, including live entertainment.

Another way for the community to get involved in Project ASCENT is by sponsoring a camp participant. A $300 sponsorship pays for a child’s complete camp experience, including gear and instruction.

Christensen said the ultimate goal for the nonprofit would be to build a recreation center for the community and start after-school programs. “We’re giving our community things to do,” he said, adding that he would like to involve other areas besides Thompson Falls, and incorporate projects and activities for veterans.

“We focus a lot on the kids,” Christensen said, “but there’s a high rate of addiction in Montana. Having the opportunity to do things and be active combats addiction.”

Alderete said that the outdoors can inspire kids.

“If kids love it, they can bring it home and remember it the rest of their lives,” Alderete said. As an artist, he looks forward to integrating sketching sessions with the kids into the Project ASCENT camps.

For more information on Project ASCENT and its camps, or to donate, go to http://www.projectascent.org.