We are thrilled to announce a partnership with the National Inclusion Project to implement Let's ALL Play-Inclusion in Recreational Programs.

Camp Sweyolakan and Camp Dart-Lo has held camp sessions for children with special needs called "You, Bet I CAN!" sessions for years. YBIC has been a very popular program but due to the need for extra staff and specialists for these weeks, we have only been able to offer it certain sessions throughout the summer.  The Let's ALL Play - Recreational Program will still focus on building skills and gaining self-esteem as part of the outdoor experience, but allows the camps to expand the program through the entire summer with additional staff.

The partnership lets children with developmental disabilities enjoy a successful summer camp experience in an inclusive setting. As part of this initiative, the National Inclusion Project will provide a program model, training, expertise, and an award of $ 10,000 which will help to pay for an Inclusion Coordinator and staff. This Coordinator will be able to work hand in hand with parents to get their child ready for camp.

The National Inclusion Project has been actively developing its Let's ALL Play Program since the program's inception in 2004. In 2010, the Project is partnering with over 45 recreational programs in 23 states. Teaming with Camp Fire USA is another exciting step toward their goal of full inclusion. "We feel that working with Camp Fire USA will help us further our mission to open doors in communities nationwide for children with disabilities to experience everything life has to offer," says Jerry Aiken, Executive Director.

Let's ALL Play helps bring an inclusive recreational experience to children with disabilities. It gives children with developmental disabilities the same experience as those without. Children with disabilities and their peers who are typically developing come together to participate in recreational activities such as swimming, arts and crafts, community service, physical fitness and more. Campers are still mainstreamed into camp and must be able to walk on uneven terrain.