About Us

Who We Are

More than an adventure, its a way of life

Always Choose Adventures (ACA) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization located in Gilpin County, Colorado. Our Mission is to serve people in connecting to their bodies, nature, and their community. We fulfill this via programs that enable people to show up as their whole self and facilitate the intersectionality of identities that allow people to grow.

Everyone deserves adventure in their lives to better their physical and mental health.

Our Story
Proudly serving the Colorado outdoor recreation community since 2016 we’ve pivoted and shifted our focus, and offerings to meet those who need it most. As we launch Camp Always Choose Adventures we want you to know dreams do come true, and to never give up on your dreams
Who We Serve
We serve people of all ages and abilities however we specialize in serving underfunded and served schools, and those with disabilities.
Vision

To become a leading transformative space where individuals of all backgrounds find harmony with nature, embrace their true selves, and foster a deep sense of community. We envision a world where people's connection to the outdoors enriches their lives and bridges diverse cultures, inspiring a collective commitment to environmental stewardship and personal wellbeing.

Mission

To serve people in connecting to their bodies, nature, and their community. We fulfill this via programs that enable people to show up as their whole self and facilitate the intersectionality of identities that allow people to grow.

Meet The Team

Chantelle Shoaee

Founder & Executive Director
Wilderness First Responder

Gerry Roach

Board President
Former Wilderness First Responder

Mike Goldblatt

Director of Operations
Wilderness First Responder

Natasha Salem-McDowell

Assistant Executive Director
Wilderness First Aid

Scott Garcia

Director of Social Media

Chandler Barre

Board Treasurer

Wren Hayes

Director of Grants
Wilderness First Responder

Rolf Asphaug

Board of Directors Advisor
Wilderness First Responder

Don Marselies

Camp ACA Event Photographer
Wilderness First Responder

Courtney Cosgriff CN, CCH

Camp ACA Herbalist + Bee Specialist
Owner & Founder of Honeybee Herbals

Erin Crider

UnCharted Outdoors Women Founder
Fly Fishing & Waterfowl Guide

Phil Cox

Marketing and Newsletter
Admin to Executive Director

Jenny Roach

Lead Ambassador
Wilderness First Aid

Bridget Gray

Volunteer Event Coordinator

Awk Chanthalangsy

Wilderness First Aid

Ashley Nakashimada

Oregon Ambassador
Wilderness First Aid

Connor Robinson

ACA Gear Library Director

Tanya Chaffee

ACA Board Advisor + ACA All Around Ninja

Leah Whitelaw

ACA Ambassador