First Descents

First Descents is a Denver-based nonprofit that delivers free, outdoor-adventure programs—including rock climbing, kayaking, and surfing—for young adults affected by cancer and other serious health conditions. The organization runs week-long, multi-day, and local community adventure programs designed to rebuild confidence, physical capacity, and peer connection among participants. Founded in 2001, First Descents operates nationally and has expanded programming over the last several years to include community-level adventures, specialized expeditions, and programs for additional healthcare-impacted groups (including some programs for frontline healthcare workers and caregivers). In recent years the organization has reported continued multi-million-dollar annual revenues while maintaining year-over-year program delivery and growth.