History of Progress Peak

Growing up in Hunterdon County, NJ made me appreciate the beauty and challenge that being outside provides. However, Hunterdon was not the most affirming place to be a transgender teenager. I decided to go to college at Thomas Jefferson University- East Falls (Philadelphia University at the time). I built a community and was able to find myself away from the constraints and judgement in my home town.

In the summer between finishing my undergrad degree in psychology and starting my grad program in Community and Trauma Counseling at Thomas Jefferson University, I worked a summer at Camp Ramapo for Children in Rhinebeck, NY, a summer camp for youth with special needs and behavioral struggles. This was the hardest and best job I've ever had. I've been chasing that high ever since. However, due to classes and job restraints, I haven't had a summer to dedicate to Camp Ramapo since.

After college, I had a fresh perspective on the human mind, counseling skills, and training in childhood trauma and play therapy. I worked a couple of jobs including at an adolescent partial hospitalization program and Child Guidance Resource Centers. While I loved the kids, families, and colleagues that I worked with, something was missing. I really needed to focus my time on supporting folks who identify as LGBTQ+. "Becoming what I needed when I was younger" was on my Master's graduation cap, after all.

Working at Center for Family Services, I've been able to fulfill those dreams of working within the community for the community. For years, since finishing my summer at Ramapo and throughout my graduate studies, I wanted to figure out how to combine my love for experiencing the outdoors and mental wellness, particularly for youth and families. This was the start of Progress Peak Adventures.

In March 2025, I proudly established Progress Peak Adventures as a non-profit organization, marking the beginning of an exciting journey! Our mission is to create inclusive and engaging events for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. We offer a diverse range of activities, from physical challenges and arts & crafts to social gatherings and essential life skills workshops. Our vision is to expand and enhance our offerings, fostering a sense of community and support. To turn this dream into a sustainable reality, we invite you to join us on this adventure. Together, we can nurture creativity, promote well-being, and cultivate connections that empower everyone involved.

Love,

Carson Eckard (he/him), M.S., NCC, LAC - Director, Progress Peak Adventures- Adventure with pride