Our mission

Ascend develops young women’s self-confidence and skills through the sport of mountain climbing in post-conflict countries in order to promote youth leadership and civic-mindedness.

What we aim to solve

Afghanistan is among the most difficult places in the world to be a woman. Girls are are devalued and they lack equal opportunity for health, education, and economic empowerment. Ascend develops girls into leaders using a holistic, athletics-based curriculum and emphasizing outdoor adventure.

What we do

We empower young Afghan women to become change makers in their communities by combining intensive physical training, challenging mountain climbing expeditions, and extensive character and leadership development.

How we are funded

We are funded primarily through private individual donations. We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization in the U.S., and a registered charity in Norway and Afghanistan. Platinum level Guidestar certified. See our financial details public tax filings on our website.