Program Overview

ASCEND Care is designed to support young adults who are navigating challenging life circumstances while working toward professional and economic stability.

Many young adults possess significant potential but lack access to the mentorship, guidance, and professional networks that often shape career opportunities.

ASCEND Care addresses this gap by connecting participants with experienced scholars and professionals who help them explore career pathways, develop professional skills, and build the relationships that support long-term mobility.

Through structured mentorship and cohort-based programming, participants gain the support needed to move forward with greater clarity and confidence.

Who ASCEND Care Serves

ASCEND Care supports young adults who are seeking direction, mentorship, and career exposure as they work toward long-term professional stability. Participants may include individuals who:

are navigating economic hardship or community instability

are seeking guidance exploring career pathways

are participating in workforce or community development programs

want to strengthen professional skills and networks

The program is designed to help participants build confidence, professional identity, and access to opportunity networks.

What Participants Receive

ASCEND Care provides participants with structured mentorship and professional development designed to support long-term career mobility.

Mentorship

Participants are paired with mentors from BDN’s national network of scholars and professionals who provide encouragement, guidance, and career insight.

Professional Development

Participants engage in workshops focused on communication skills, leadership development, workplace readiness, and professional identity.

Career Exploration

Participants are introduced to a range of industries and career pathways that help them explore long-term professional goals.

Peer Cohort Support

Participants move through the program as part of a cohort, creating a supportive environment that encourages accountability, growth, and shared learning.

Program Outcomes

ASCEND Care aims to support participants as they move toward stable career pathways and long-term economic mobility.Through mentorship, professional development, and career exploration, participants strengthen the skills and networks needed to pursue meaningful professional opportunities.

By connecting participants with experienced scholars and professionals, ASCEND Care expands access to the kinds of relationships and guidance that often shape long-term career success.

ASCEND Care applies the ASCEND framework to support young adults navigating early career and life transitions.Participants engage with mentors, develop professional skills, and explore career pathways that support long-term opportunity.

Engagement

Participants build mentorship relationships that encourage persistence and growth.

Navigation

Participants receive guidance navigating education systems, career planning decisions, and professional pathways.

Development

Participants strengthen leadership skills, communication abilities, and workplace readiness.

Opportunity

Participants gain exposure to employers, industries, and professional networks.

Mobility

Participants pursue stable career pathways and long-term economic advancement.

The ASCEND Care

Stabilization & Career Acceleration for Young Adults

5,000+

20+

150+

10+