CARE for Children’s Therapeutic Recreation Summer Day Camp has returned to the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, after a 7-year hiatus, after being identified by the organization’s Family Leadership Group as a need within the community.

The camp serves school-aged children who receive services from CARE, as well as local children and teens with disabilities or developmental delays throughout McKean County. Designed as an extension of CARE’s therapeutic services, the program provides opportunities for children to strengthen and apply skills developed throughout the school year in a fun, supportive, and socially engaging environment. Through structured recreational activities, participants continue working on communication, motor development, social interaction, self-regulation, and independence while enjoying a traditional camp experience.

“Families told us they wanted opportunities for their children to remain engaged, active, and connected during the summer months,” said Tina Martin, executive director of CARE for Children. “This program allows children to build on the progress they have made throughout the year while enjoying experiences that are unique to a camp environment. Through recreation, children develop confidence, form friendships, gain independence, and continue strengthening skills that support success at home, in school, and in the community.”

More than 20 children are registered for this year’s camp, which runs June 9, 11, 16, and 18. Activities include swimming, arts and crafts, outdoor recreation, and a variety of hands-on learning experiences. Campers will create a USA 250 Celebration flower pot and plant a flower to take home, make bug catchers and explore the Pitt Trail, and participate in competitive yard games. Local musician Jim Ronan will also perform for campers through a partnership with the Spark Arts Program.

The camp is coordinated by CARE Occupational Therapist, Kim Miller, OTR/L, and supported by a rotating team of physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, teachers, CARE staff members, and paraprofessional aides. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that children receive the support they need while participating fully in activities designed to promote physical, social, emotional, and communication skill development.

CARE’s Family Leadership Group was established to give parents a voice in agency programming, strengthen advocacy efforts, and help the organization identify and respond to unmet needs within the community.

CARE for Children’s Summer Day Camp is one of the organization’s Therapeutic Recreation program which were developed to support continued growth, learning, and social engagement for children with disabilities and developmental delays through structured, developmentally appropriate recreational experiences.

The camp is made possible through a grant from the Dr. Lyle F. Renodin Foundation, a ministry of the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, New York. CARE for Children is grateful for the Foundation’s support in helping provide therapeutic recreation opportunities that promote continued growth, learning, and social engagement for children throughout the summer months.

CARE for Children is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children of all abilities.