Free summer camp opens for individuals with special needs

Two organizations are joining forces to co-fund a camp for children with needs. The camp will allow them to get out and play this summer without any limitations.

The El Centro Parks and Rec along with Autism Support of Imperial County opened their first summer camp for children with special needs. The camp will have physical activities for them but also give the children an opportunity to socialize with other kids they may be able to better relate to.

“Not only is it important for just being active. It’s a social event too. It’s a time for these children and these adults to interact when they normally wouldn’t be,” said James Gonzalez, President of Autism Support of Imperial County.

For one parent, it strengthens the bond with his children. Thomas Catlett said, “They don’t like affection. They don’t like to be hugged. They don’t like eye contact. So getting them out where they’re having fun, they get excited. They want to interact with you. They want that one-on-one or two-on-one interaction with their parents.”

The summer camp brings out a different side of the kids. Will Thomas, El Centro Parks, and Recs Program Coordinator said, “When those kids show up and their excitement like I said, it’s infectious. You wanna be there. You see the smile on their face. The joy they get out of the program succeeding. And just ultimately having a good time.”

They eventually want to expand the summer camp all over Imperial County. Gonzalez said, “In the future, we hope to community and plan and partner up with all the parks and recreations departments throughout the Imperial County. To spread this service out to so many more children who need it.”

The summer camp will continue for four more weeks and isn’t just limited to children. Teens and adults are also welcome. For more information, you can contact the Conrad Harrison Youth Center at (760) 337-4570.