Adaptive Sports Association

Most Durango locals have heard of the Adaptive Sports Association. For many, the assumption is that they work with skiers at Durango Mountain Resort throughout the winter. Yet, the ASA is much more than the winter program.

Thirty years ago, the Durango Adaptive Sports Association began when Dave Spencer began skiing after losing a leg to cancer. Today, the ASA supports any disability, and offers a variety of activities throughout the year. Of course, wintertime skiing and snowboarding remain a large focus of the ASA, but the summertime activities also fill the calendar.

Activities such as rafting, cycling, camping, canoeing, and skiing allow many participants the ability to overcome challenges. According to Timothy Kroes, the Executive Director, they use these activities to impact other areas of lives that seem difficult. The accomplishment that comes from these activities equips the participants to tackle other life challenges. Tim says the “adaptive” in the name is a key focus: they are able to adjust the activity and equipment to the end user to find the best fit for each person.

All ages participate in the ASA, and they have had people come from all over the country. The majority of the participants are in the local region (Durango and surrounding towns, as well as the Farmington area), which is part of their mission. However, sometimes the ASA offers family activities when a member of the family has a disability, so the whole family can participate together. Visitors to Durango often utilize this feature. The ASA also works with veterans who have disabilities.

In many ways, volunteers comprise a large part of this non-profit organization. Tim says there are over 250 volunteers at any time, and they donate approximately 15,000 hours of time. In general, the ASA pairs one staff/volunteer to every student during activities. In general, the volunteers assist the person with the disability throughout the activity. Tim says the volunteers are community members, and the ASA can train them for the activities in the summer months.

The ASA provides an incomparable experience to many people. We are so glad to see the continued benefits it provides. This is a great way for locals to get involved and connected in the community—especially if you are new to Durango! Tim said he first got involved in the organization through volunteering. They have no minimum time commitment—anything from once a month to a few times per week is appreciated. Of course, donations are always welcome as they are nonprofit. They also have some upcoming events/fundraisers. The Harvest Gala at the Mahogany Grille is open to the general public, and will be held on October 23. Tim also encourages locals to remember what the ASA does, in case friends and family visit Durango and could use their services.

Check out their website and the attached video for further information. http://asadurango.com/