In memory of Fabian Chombo for all the support he has given to the community
THE CHOMBO’S SCHOLARSHIP
Help Us Empower More Young Adults
Click below to learn how you can help expand this scholarship and empower young adults on their path to independence.
Hands That Help, Heart That Inspires
Celebrating Fabian’s Dedication to Service and Community Growth
Fabian was a strong self-advocate whose kindness, compassion, and gentle spirit inspired everyone around him. He had an extraordinary ability to support his peers, especially young adults working toward employment, independence, and personal growth. Fabian loved helping young adults with mild to severe disabilities and particularly enjoyed supporting those with severe autism, because he understood their experiences firsthand and wanted to ensure that everyone had the opportunity to pursue meaningful employment. He dedicated countless hours to volunteering, consistently showing up to serve his community with purpose and heart. Because of his remarkable commitment, he was on track to become one of the first members of the Ascenda Board of Directors, a testament to the leadership and responsibility he demonstrated through his volunteer work. His enthusiasm for helping others, his love for nature, and his unwavering service continue to elevate and strengthen Ascenda’s vision for creating opportunities where young adults with developmental disabilities can learn, grow, and thrive.
Fabian’s Quiet Leadership: Ensuring Everyone is Seen
This video captures a moment that meant a lot to us during one of our youth advocacy workshops. All of our young self-advocates were drafting letters and turning them into videos to send to state delegates. Everyone was filming, and in the middle of all the conversations and excitement, Fabian noticed something important: Aliyah wasn’t part of any of the videos.
Because she is minimally speaking, it can sometimes be harder for her to participate in group activities like this. But before I even stepped in, Fabian did. He gently asked if Aliyah could be part of his video so she wouldn’t be left out.
When she sat beside him, he immediately said something that touched all of us:
“If anyone watches this video, they’re going to see her skills.”
He asked for her to bead next to him, not as a distraction but as a highlight. He wanted everyone watching to see her incredible fine-motor skills. In his mind, maybe a jewelry company or an employer who values detailed, hands-on work might see Aliyah and think, “She would be amazing for this.”
This wasn’t the first time he acted this way. Fabian has a pattern of doing quiet, selfless things, little acts that make big differences. He puts others first, makes sure opportunities are shared, and sees ability where others might overlook it.
This moment was one of those times.
A simple video, a simple gesture, but a huge example of what true inclusion looks like.
For Applicants: Apply for the Scholarship
Supporting Young Adults on Their Path to Employment and Independence
The The Chombo’s Scholarship was created in loving memory of Fabian, a young man whose kindness and generosity touched everyone around him. This scholarship is designed to support young adults with developmental disabilities who are working toward employment, career readiness, and personal growth.
Eligibility:
Young adults seeking employment or enrolled in a job-readiness program
Individuals committed to learning, growing, and contributing to their community
Preference for those involved in acts of service or nature-based activities
Applicants will submit:
A statement describing how this would support their journey toward independence.
Two recommendations from a teacher or coach, who can speak to the applicant’s character, dedication, and growth.
Examples of community involvement
Scholarship Application Form
Fabian’s Pathway Scholarship Application
Supporting young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities on their journey toward meaningful employment and independence.