Summer camp is not always available to every child, especially those with special needs. The Summer Mentoring Project is bridging the gap and giving kids from all kinds of backgrounds a chance to succeed.
The program is a partnership between Charlottesville Parks and Recreation, Camping for All and The Enrichment Alliance. The summer camp supports children with different backgrounds including those with autism, intellectual disabilities, and kids whose English is their second language.
During the school year, these children have many resources available, but during the summer, they often lose them and return to school in the fall further behind.
Mary Anna Dunn is the director of The Enrichment Alliance and said the program is essential for the children.
"They come back with the summer gap way behind the other kids. That's the last thing we want for our children with special needs," Dunn said.
The kids play games, perform in talent shows and do arts and crafts. They also take field trips that include visits to the pool.
Grants and donations fund the Summer Mentoring Project. The money pays for two skilled mentors who work with the kids.
The program runs from June 18 to July 27. While it is coming to an end, Dunn said it is not too early for parents to think about sending their child to the camp next year.
