Ascend reaches its fifth year of providing services, but the history of Ascend stretches back much further.
The center started in 1957, headed by BJ Halvorsen.
Director of Ascend Deanna Genske tells Seehafer News that BJ “felt that differently-abled individuals should have meaningful work to facilitate them being part of the community… instead of feeling apart from it”.
First, under the name Holiday House, participants made and sold holiday wreaths together.
The name was changed to Ascend to convey the wider variety of services that they offer.
Genske went on to explain where their mission is now from where Halvorsen started.
She said that “His mission was ‘We help people help themselves’ so today we just simply say that we promote individual growth through community experiences, education, and employment opportunities to people with disabilities.”
Those interested in learning about programs, volunteer opportunities, or contributing to the organization can visit Ascend’s Facebook page, website, or call (920) 682-4663.
