Aaron’s Acres was happy to provide a virtual alternative to summer camp this year for those children and young adults that could not join us in person, but still wanted a camp experience this summer.

Offering in-person summer camp came with some restrictions and regulations that are not usually a part of camp; including, COVID-19 testing, mask wearing, etc. This made it difficult for participants who are considered medically fragile or have a compromised immune system to attend camp during a pandemic. For some, the testing process might be too traumatic. A number of Aaron’s Acres participants have medical or sensory concerns that would make it so they could not attend in-person camp. Aaron’s Acres implemented a virtual camp program (similar to last summer) in order to meet the needs of these children.

Children and young adults, ages 10-25, participated in virtual program session over a 2-week period. Participants had the opportunity to engage in age appropriate activities with their peers with support from the Aaron’s Acres staff.  Creating art projects, participating in a scavenger hunt, making pizza dough and cooking other treats, playing charades and “food” bingo filled each day of camp.

The Aaron’s Acres team always strives to meet each child where he/she is at right now, in order for him/her to have a positive experience while being aware of the various issues in which he/she manages. As we look into the future, we understand that virtual programming opens the door to people who have possibly more challenging disabilities and truly brings them into a safe, supportive setting with others in similar situations. Aaron’s Acres will continue to strive to meet these needs as we move forward and grow in the future.

Smiles, laughter and pride are what staff saw from participants during camp. Look through the photos below to see what the campers were up to during the 2-week virtual camp session!