Free resources to help you and others name strengths,
recognize support systems, and move forward with intention.

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Discussion Guides

Explore The Ascenders through discussion guides designed for individual or small-group reflection (e.g., book clubs). Featuring reflection prompts, discussion questions, and creative activities, these guides help readers connect the heroes’ journeys to their own stories of purpose, resilience, and self-authorship.

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Guidebooks and Learning Companions

The Ascenders Guidebooks and Learning Companions are designed to extend the book’s insights into practice. Whether you are a K–12 educator, higher education professional, family/caregiver, mentor, or student, these resources offer reflection prompts, practical strategies, and action steps that deepen understanding and strengthen learning, belonging, and success.

Students | K-12 Educators | College Educators | Mentors/Community Members| Family/Caregivers

Curriculum

The Ascenders Curriculum Series brings the book’s themes to life through ready-to-use syllabus, lesson plans, student workbooks, and facilitation guides. Designed for high school and college settings, these resources help students build identity, purpose, resilience, and belonging while giving educators practical tools for reflection, discussion, and skill development. Each resource supports meaningful connections, stronger academic habits, and pathways toward success. These curriculum resources—including the syllabus and sample slide deck—are intended as a starting point; educators and facilitators are encouraged to revise, adapt, and build upon them to best meet the needs, contexts, and strengths of their students.

High School Elective | College First-Year Experience/Seminar

Journal Prompts

Deepen your growth with prompts designed to meet you wherever you are. Try journaling for a week, follow weekly themes, or explore a full year of daily reflections. Each prompt offers a simple way to pause, gain clarity, and rise with intention. This resource includes a 7 day starter, a 52 week journey, and 365 daily prompts. Use them at your own pace and in whatever way supports your growth and well-being.

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Individual and Small Group Reflection Tools

A collection of simple, ready-to-use activities that build connection, spark reflection, and strengthen community. Explore quick assessments, icebreakers, and community-building practices you can use in classrooms, advising, mentoring, or small groups. These tools help people open up, share honestly, and reflect with purpose.

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Research and Theory-Based Resources

Explore evidence-informed tools rooted in research, theory, and best practices. These resources translate scholarly insights into clear, practical strategies you can use in classrooms, programs, advising, and leadership. Designed to support deeper understanding and stronger outcomes, each resource helps you connect theory to action with clarity and confidence.

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Guidebook for Rural Black Boys and Men

The Ascenders Guidebook for Rural Black Boys and Men is a powerful, culturally grounded resource created specifically for rural Black boys and men who are preparing for life after high school or navigating their early college years. Rooted in the wisdom, strength, and lived experiences of rural communities, this guide helps young rural Black men reflect on their identity, name their purpose, build confidence, and make informed choices about college, trades, the military, or the workforce.

Designed as a companion to The Ascenders, it offers practical tools, self-reflection prompts, and strengths-based guidance that affirms the brilliance of rural Black youth while supporting their transition into adulthood. Whether used in schools, mentoring programs, summer bridge experiences, or family settings, this guidebook helps each young man recognize their power, honor where they come from, and chart a path forward with clarity and pride.