Brunswick County, NC – “I think most parents look forward to the end of summer and the beginning of the school year. Instead, I am so sad that summer camp is over,” said Laura Saunders at the end of the first season of Brunswick County Summer Camp. “I truly believe that my son Jackson has had the very best summer of his young life!” Ms. Saunders’ son has autism but that didn’t stop him from participating in camp activities.

The camp was the result of collaboration between Brunswick County Parks and Recreation and Communities In Schools (CIS). A grant from the Bubel/Aiken Foundation provided a workshop to instruct staff on ways to make activities accessible for all children. “Because of this training, our staff is able integrate children with disabilities and those without to create an environment where they simply play together as kids,” explains Kathy Smith, CIS After School Director.

By including children of all abilities in group activities, the program promotes acceptance and friendship. “Jackson is very friendly and very funny. He is always ready to play. I am very proud of Jackson,” says peer camper Jordan, age 10. To learn more about Brunswick County Summer Camp and other CIS programs, call Kathy Smith at 754-9515 or visit www.cisbrunswick.org.