Friday, July 16, 2010

12 kids with autism enjoy the thrill of camp!


Summer camp truly is a one-of-a-kind thrill, as 12 of our Autism Center for Excellence (A.C.E.) campers discovered a couple weeks ago.

Too often, children with autism are isolated or only interact with each other. But that was not the case at Grizzly Creek Ranch. Our A.C.E. campers interacted so well with other typically developing campers attending Grizzly Creek camps that staff chose to integrate them even more than planned. In fact, one staff member from another camp commented that our campers were better behaved than theirs and that they were highly impressed with our staff!

The campers learned swimming, arts and crafts, kayaking, archery, volleyball, scooter hockey, fishing, soccer and dancing. They also enjoyed a movie night, campfire time and a talent show.

A.C.E. Camp was a pivotal opportunity for these kids to further develop friendships with each other and other campers while also building on the skills they learn daily at UCP’s Autism Center for Excellence at Sacramento State.

But this opportunity came with a price tag. Many thanks to our wonderful community members who stepped up to help foot the bill, understanding these families were already stretched thin. Together, they raised $9,668!
• Teichert Foundation
• Setzer Foundation
• Active 20/30 Club
• Janelle Okamoto
• Steve Rau
• Randy Gutfield
• Laurie Gwinn
• Steve and Stacey Horton
• India Carter
• Jackie DeMuth
• Denise Rhyne
• Jean Bristow
• David Houseworth
• Katie Winchell
• Tatyana Razumovsky
• Debra Ascarte
• Teofilo Judal

You have provided a summer these children will always remember—and skills they will use for a lifetime.

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