For the past three decades, Challenge Aspen has facilitated life-changing experiences and opportunities for individuals living with cognitive and/or physical disabilities, transcending limitations through their adaptive recreation and scholarship programs. From sit-skiing and snowboarding to paddleboarding, music and theater, the organization offers customized programming for individuals of all ages and abilities.
On July 19, the Snowmass Village-based nonprofit will host its annual Denim & Diamonds Gala, featuring a live auction with prizes ranging from dinner to luxury vacations. Attendees are encouraged to arrive in ‘Aspen casual’ attire — a mountain-inspired style paired with sparkling accessories.
“Denim & Diamonds feels like the perfect metaphor for who we are,” Lindsay Cagley, Challenge Aspen CEO, told The Sopris Sun. “It’s rugged and refined, approachable and elegant. It honors our western mountain roots while celebrating the sparkle our community brings to one another’s lives. This theme lets us celebrate in a way that’s fun and uniquely Aspen.”
She also shared how this event is a celebration, not just for the people the nonprofit serves, but for the support community that continues to donate and volunteer. Cagley also gave a small preview of what guests can expect when they join the 30th anniversary celebration.
“We are looking back on an amazing community that has made the commitment to view people with disabilities as capable, and removing the barriers created by others. We are celebrating the participants who bravely commit to living fully through adaptive adventures,” she stated. “Guests can expect an unforgettable evening that is truly mission-centric: expect heart-opening performances from our participants and the chance to try adaptive activities like archery, coached by our certified guides.”
Cagley joined the organization in 2021 after working for years in the hospitality and ski industries. When she became familiar with the organization, she felt that kind of work was something she could not pass up.
“From the moment I was introduced to Challenge Aspen, I knew it was something incredibly special. The work we do is deeply human — it connects people through joy, challenge and shared experience,” she commented. “With participants, volunteers, staff and community, there’s a sense of purpose and connection here that you don’t find everywhere. Our programs welcome participants from around the world, while also offering ongoing community programming for people living from Aspen to Parachute.”
Cagley said that while the work she performs at Challenge Aspen does indeed come with a fair share of challenges, primarily with the ever-growing demand for the programs, it is rewarding to see the clients served through the organization’s efforts become empowered.
“The impact of our work goes far beyond recreation; it’s about personal empowerment, transformation and building community. Whether it’s a child gaining a skill they can use for the rest of their lives, a veteran rediscovering a sense of purpose or a parent watching their child experience pure joy with their peers, the ripple effect of recreation is very real,” she said. “Creating ripple effects starts with a mindset: believing that people with disabilities deserve the same joy, challenge and connection as anyone else.”
Discussing how the community can continue to support Challenge Aspen, Cagely wished to remind people that practices of inclusion aren’t just a job for adaptive providers to champion in their daily practices, but more so for the village that already hosts people of all abilities.
“Whether you’re welcoming someone on a hike, adapting your business for accessibility or simply extending an invitation with compassion, every action creates momentum. We’ve seen how small changes can make a big difference.”
She continued, “As we celebrate 30 years of Challenge Aspen, this milestone is a call to action to stay involved for the future. [We’d like to thank] everyone who has walked, skied, danced, donated and volunteered with us. You’ve helped create a community where ability is defined by spirit, not circumstance.”
For more information, to make a donation or to get involved, visit www.challengeaspen.org