SPSC Objectives
To provide a recreational, community based program for youth with severe, multiple disabilities who are aged 9 to 21 years.
Objectives
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To provide summer programming for those children where little or no programming exists. Due to the nature of the children's' disabilities, other programs which are accessible to all children are extremely difficult, if not impossible, to access. The children who attend the Summer program are those who "fall between the cracks" of existing programs.
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To stop regression in skills and behavior and continue stimulation and growth over the summer months. During the school year the campers attend Developmental Centers for six hours a day, where each child has a Personal Program Plan that is implemented throughout the school year.
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To afford youth with multiple disabities access to their community and all it has to offer. It takes planning, preparation and usually some form of adaptation for the campers to participate in the community. They require one on one assistance with the activities and many of them require specialized chairs and/or medical equipment. The Summer Program provides a one-to-one staff ratio to assist and adapt activities to meet the needs of each camper.
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To provide respite relief to parents who find the summer months a very stressful time without a great deal of relief. The Summer Program gives families of multiple handicapped children the opportunity to spend time with other siblings and perhaps do activities they ordinarily are unable to do when their special needs child is home. It provides parents with a much needed break in the daily care of their child.
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To promote a positive public awareness of individuals with special needs. Many times on community outings members of the community ask the staff about the Summer Program. Many people are surprised to see the campers involved in the various activities. The most commonly asked question is "where do these kids come from?" The Summer Program welcomes involvement form members in the community. We work to promote a positive attitude regarding individuals with special needs, and focus on the abilities of the campers.