Program Levels

Which Program Is Right For You?

Basecamp

What is it? Basecamp is where every major expedition begins, a staging area for the adventures to come. This is the place to be until your adventure is ready to start. Basecamp represents the choice to live an unforgettable life and step outside of everything comfortable. At every basecamp, we come together with friends, prepare ourselves for an amazing adventure and wake up each day in the shadow of the mountain we’ve chosen to climb, the mountain that will change our lives!
At First Descents, Basecamp is a staging area for your future adventures. When you fill out the inquiry form (to the left hand side of the page), you will then receive a call from one of our program coordinators. After this initial conversation you will be entered into FD Basecamp! Once we have programs available, we will give you another ring to determine which of our programs works best for you and your schedule. We are so excited you are interested in joining us for a First Descents adventure and look forward to speaking to you soon.

Who’s eligible?  All young adult cancer fighters and survivors.

FDi

What is it? In an effort to reach even more young adult survivors and fighters, First Descents is launching FDi. The “i” stands for introduction, and that’s our goal with the FDi program – to introduce FD to more YA’s who need it! FDi is a weekend program, set near urban areas and hosted in collaboration with medical centers across the country. FDi is the perfect adventure for those who want to experience FD but are unable to attend an FD1 program due to health, treatment schedules, or family & work obligations.

Who’s eligible? All young adult cancer survivors and fighters between 18-39 who have never experienced a First Descents program and either live near, are being treated at, or have been treated at each participating medical center. We bring the adventure to you!

What does it cost? Nothing!

FD1

What is it? The original First Descents experience. A week-long adventure program centered around whitewater kayaking, rock climbing or surfing. You’ll be pushed beyond your limits, meet some of the most inspiring people and experience some of the most beautiful places in our Country.

Who is eligible? All young adult cancer fighters and survivors (ages 18 – 39) who have never attended an FD camp before. FD1 level programs are for all first-time participants.

What does it cost? Nada!  The FD experience is 100% free of cost to all first-time participants (terms and conditions on our money back guarantee). We ask that you cover your own cost of travel, but if you’re not able, travel scholarships are available based on need. All food, lodging, instruction, gear and activities during the week are included.

FD2

What is it? The next step in your journey as a survivor and an outdoorsman (woman!).  A new location, a heightened adventure, and the same FD magic.  These week-long adventure programs will be centered around whitewater kayaking, rock climbing, and surfing. The FD2 experience is designed to allow returning campers to create new goals, and continue reaching – both physically and emotionally.

Who is eligible? All 2nd time returning FD participants. You must have attended a First Descents camp before to be eligible for FD2. If you’ve already been to camp 2 times, you’re ready to move on to FDX! Jump to the FDX section below.

What does it cost?  Your FD2 program is free. We do ask that you join us in our commitment to reaching more YA’s each year.  In order to attend an FD2 program, you will need to select an adventure of your own, and commit to registering for Team FD.  There’s no such thing as failure – even if you raise $2.00, that is $2.00 that will go directly to serving another young adult with cancer. We’re here to help support your efforts!  Here’s how it works:

• Sign up for the FD2 program of your choice
• Register for Team FD, and select your own challenge (climb a thon, 5k, bike race, etc. – get creative!)
• We help you build a strategy and reach your goal!
• Attend camp with 15 other FD alum, supporting and pushing each other to build on your previous FD experience

FD2 participants are responsible for their own travel costs.

FDX

What is it? The ultimate adventure experience. FDX is your ticket to pursuing life-long adventure and continuing to live the spirit of FD. Here’s how it works:  First Descents will work with our partnering outfitters to reserve spaces on outdoor expeditions happening all over the country and beyond. FD alum will have the opportunity to select an FDX trip and fundraise to secure a spot on that expedition. FDX programs are owned by you. This is YOUR experience; it’s up to you to redefine your limits and seek your adventure.

Who is eligible? All 3rd time returning participants. You must have attended an FD1 and FD2 camp before in order to register for FDX. You can attend FDX as many times as you wish, for the rest of your life. FDX is all about seeking legitimate challenge, and applying the healing properties of the outdoors & adventure sports in our daily lives. We reserve spots for participants first but we will have a few spots available for caregivers and other FD supporters. The same fundraising requirements apply.

What does it cost? Each FDX expedition will have a $1000 fundraising goal. This $1000 helps to “pay it forward” and is enough to sponsor a new FD1 participant. FDX Participants are responsible for their own travel costs. We’ll work with you to reach your goal!

FDrock

What is it: At First Descents, we believe that the right support team is critical to any adventure. With that in mind, we’ve decided to honor those who support our participants. Over the past 11 years, we’ve heard so many of you tell us that your caregiver would really benefit from an FD program as well. We agree! Everyone has a “rock” who was there for them in a time of need and we believe your “rock” could use a little adventure too!

Who is eligible: FD alum are given the opportunity to nominate their Rock to attend.  Our pilot program for FDRock is full, but stay tuned for more rock programs in 2013.

How much does it cost: FDRock programs are free to those who attend!

FD40+

What is it: A cancer diagnosis during young adulthood comes with a specific set of challenges and obstacles, and young adults recognized as an underserved demographic, caught between pediatric and adult oncology. We’re dedicated to serving young adults (diagnosed between the ages of 18 – 39), however, we realize that 40 is the new 30, so we’re excited to now offer a program for fighters and survivors age 40 – 49!  Similar to our FD1 program, participants will participate in a weeklong adventure that pushes their limits and introduces them to incredible people in some of the most beautiful places in the U.S.

Who is eligible: Young adult cancer fighters and survivors diagnosed after the age of 18 who have not yet attended an FD program.

How much does it cost: FD 40+ programs are free to those who attend. This includes lodging, food, gear and instruction. We ask that all participants cover travel to and from the program