JOIN US FOR A 2026 HEALING ADVENTURE!

Adventure is calling! First Descents’ 2026 Core Program Registration opens on Monday, February 2, at 11 AM MST.

Get started today by browsing the amazing destinations we have planned and start thinking about which program you’d like to join. Then be sure to log in to the FD Portal on February 2 to submit your choices! Don’t have a login yet? Submit an inquiry form HERE.

All programs are FREE and include lodging in a spectacular location, plus gear, pro-guided instruction, chef-prepared meals, and time to kick back with fellow members of our incredible FD community.

BROWSE CORE PROGRAMS

JOIN US FOR A 2026 HEALING ADVENTURE!

Founder's Circle

Founded by Brad Ludden in 2001, First Descents (FD) launched with the vision to provide life-changing adventure experiences for young adults with cancer. FD has positively impacted thousands of lives for over two decades, is a leader in the young adult oncology movement, and has expanded to support young adults coping with other serious health conditions. In an effort to honor Brad’s legacy and recognize the many generous supporters who have helped First Descents succeed, FD has established a closed donor society.

Donations to the Founder’s Circle will be earmarked for general operating support and typically used within the year they are received. The minimum required donation to be a part of the Founder’s Circle is $25,000, payable over three (3) years. Once the Founder’s Circle reaches pledges totaling $1 million, the society will be closed.

Member Benefits:

  • Permanent recognition at FDHQ, in annual report, and on FD website
  • Two (2) complimentary tickets to FD signature events in perpetuity
  • Invitation to biennial retreat with FD Founder, Brad Ludden, and key staff members
  • Invitation for two (2) to an FD camp of choice during investment period
  • Invitation to Tributaries activities in local area
  • Invitation to quarterly conference calls with Leadership at First Descents

Minimum Gift:

$25,000 (Payable over 3 years)

Founders Circle Members

Michael Gross

Joel Appel

Brent & Lisa Goldstein

Chad McWhinney

Jeremy & Sandra Shevlin

Josh and Jennifer Behr

Beyer Family in honor of Cynthia Powell

Jennifer Feikin

Rise Above It (RAI)

Wacky Warriors

Kip Cross and Jessica Martin

Eva Ho

The Kantor Family

Grady Durham

Kirk MacKenzie

Always Keep Pedaling Foundation

Anonymous

Prather’s Market

James and Crystal Dean

David and Iris Gordon

Katie and Tom Morgan

Amy “Wildflower” Lin

Cathleen “Chunks” Robinson

Nancy Oaks

Rich & Diane Easton

Katherine & Doug Milham

Mindy Boyum

Patrick Johnson

Jeff and Anna Gardner