One Last Summer to Remember

Hi, my name is Tess and i have been working at a day camp for 6 years as a counselor working with children with a range of diagnoses, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Developmental Disabilities, and Social/Emotional Disabilities. Every summer I have created a fundraiser to help fund a camper's summer. Our camp provides our guys a summer of fun filled with the same opportunities as their typical peers; a full day of sports, swimming, arts and crafts, music, cooking and even social skills. This summer, I am raising money for three campers of mine. To keep their privacy, I will refer to the campers by their initials; CB, BC, and MT. 

CB is severely Autistic. He is seventeen and this will be his last summer with us. His school district isn't willing to pay for his last summer of camp. CB is a camper I have seen grown over the past six years of my time at camp. CB is an extremely talented artist; I love seeing his drawings everyday. He has a contagious laughter and can truly make anyone's day better! He sympathizes with others emotions and can feel when someone else is hurting on the inside; he is a caring and loving boy. 

BC is severely Autistic as well. His family doesn't have the funds to pay for his summer at camp. BC has progressed immensely since I've met him; specifically, his communication and language skills have improved. BC loves to make others laugh. He loves to play games. BC is always trying to play tag with me, even if I don't agree to a game; he will surprise tag me and I will have to chase him across campus. BC brings such positive energy to the group.

MT is a young boy with down syndrome. He was new last summer and would love to return this summer. Unfortunately, his family doesn't have the funds to pay for his return. MT is humorous and energetic; he thrives in a camp setting. While I only spent eight weeks with him, I saw improvement in his behavior. He was resistant to come to camp and didn't want to listen to any of his counselors, but by the end of the summer, we would have trouble putting him in his car to leave camp!

This will be my last summer as well. I can't imagine my last summer at this amazing program without these three boys. Camp has done so much for these children and their families; camp is a safe place to have fun with people who are understanding and loving. Camp has improved their social skills, behavior skills, and life in general. Please, help me reach my goal and give these boys a summer they deserve! Any donation is helpful!