Caregivers

June 17 - August 9, 2019 10am to 3pm Monday through Friday. $375 per week early registration. Each summer we offer a unique, skills-based summer program for teens and adults with disabilities. Since 2014, campers have engaged in cooking, yoga, hiking, socialization, geocaching, technology, self-care, communication skills, Zumba, meditation, money management, art, theater, self-expression, self-advocacy, and so much more.

Financial Assistance Available

Scholarships are available.

Participants bring own snack and lunch.

In 2014, RG Program Director and Art Therapist Tina Ebsen, MA, LMFT, ATR recognized a need for an inclusive summer program offering meaningful, real life experiences. Many summer programs lack specific supports for teens and young adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. The program was developed to meet self determined goals through fun learning opportunities. Tina continues to oversee the summer program managed by RG staff, with additional support from interns and volunteers.

The program registration packet includes an intake assessment of the participants current independent living skills, and specific goals they working towards. Skills examples include: identifying the need to do a chore, maintaining a clean room, safely using kitchen or common household tools, accessing community resources such the library and public transportation, engaging in physical activities and healthy eating, and social skills such as identifying common interests and inviting others to share in experiences. Skill levels are indicated as independent, supported, or needs to learn. Families and participants also share specific goals they are working on at home, with their occupational therapists or social coaches so that we can provide continuity and supports throughout the summer.

Each week has a theme with a Friday end project. During "Art Gallery" week, we begin with a visit to a local art gallery. The group then discusses different types of art and display ideas, and develops ideas for their art gallery. Participants create a variety of art objects throughout the week, learning new skills such as innovative photography techniques, photo editing, printing, and framing. The artists create titles and pricing for their artwork. The weekly personal care activity during this week focuses grooming and dressing for a professional artist image. Participants decide on the food and beverages to be served at the art gallery, download recipes, create shopping lists, shop and prepare food, and create food displays. They create their an invitation to share with family and friends. Artists sell their artwork during the gallery and keep the proceeds.

The program offers opportunities for social interaction, including augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), physical activities such as swimming, and stress management techniques such as yoga, tai chi, and meditation. Each day"s opening group discussion outlines activities, followed by small group rotations, with support from staff, interns, and volunteers. Each day ends with daily reflections, as participants reflect on what they enjoyed, learned, or found meaningful, and what they are looking forward to the next day

The program helps teach, maintain, and improve skills, and provides something on a deeper level. It is a tradition that on the last day of the program participants write a message for everyone on a paper flower which is made into a Hawaiian lei. These messages express what each person appreciates about others, and include happy summer memories. These are the types of connections that help people feel a sense of belonging and a movement toward autonomy. The people we support also see and express pride in their progress. For a person with autism, this can have a profound impact on his or summer experience - and beyond.