Camp Encourage

Camp Encourage provided programming focused on social emotional wellness and life skills through: one Spring Day Camp for 33 campers (32 autistic, 1 peer); two signature summer camps (each four-days, three-nights overnight camp experience) for 101 campers (81 autistic, 20 peers); one Fall Overnight Weekend Camp for 33 autistic campers; one Alumni Reunion Day Camp for 15 adults on the autism spectrum; and four free camp family social gatherings: 1) a picnic for 54 individuals that included yard games, crafts, canoeing, fishing, and ice cream; 2) a panel of autistics with 59 guests in attendance; 3) swimming for 50 individuals; and 4) a holiday gathering for 95. Campers were provided $56,515 in scholarships for camp. Unique aspects of the program include: direct social instructions; sensory supports; visual strategies; positive behavioral supports; peer models; ropes course and/or zipline; traditional camp activities such as horseback riding, archery, fishing, swimming, hayrides, art activities, and singing around the campfire; and activities tailored to the individual campers interests.