Every kid, no matter what, deserves the opportunity to come to camp.
That’s the philosophy and driving passion behind Camp Encourage, a CSF funded partner since 2025 who hosts camps and other activities throughout the year for autistic youth. Their mission is to create meaningful experiences for their campers that will help them build the knowledge, courage, and skills to be empowered participants in the community.
We sat down with some of the Camp Encourage team to learn more about their work. Read on to learn more about what they do, why it matters, and how you can be a part of the impact they’re making on our community.
What is Camp Encourage?
Overnight camps are the heart and foundation of Camp Encourage. They offer two weekend camps (one in the spring and one in the fall), four summer camps, and one weekend summer camp for adults, most of whom are Camp Encourage alumni.
“Within our camps, we have a strong focus on social development, self-esteem, self-care, and skills of independence,” says Kelly Lee, executive director. “Really, it’s what you would expect in any kind of summer camp, because every kid deserves the chance to go to camp and experience that magic. It’s set up for their success, for their strengths and abilities, not what’s difficult for them. We meet them where they are and focus on crafting a space that’s open, accepting, and welcoming, with a huge focus on belonging.
Camp Encourage is designed for youth on the autism spectrum, ages 10 and up. Neurotypical youth also attend camp and participate alongside campers with autism, residing in the same cabins and participating in all camp activities.
The activities at Camp Encourage are what you would expect to see at a typical summer camp, like ziplining, horseback riding, archery, and swimming, as well as activities tailored around individual campers’ interests (including lots of indoor, air conditioned activities to cool off from the summer heat).
“They get to engage in activities they want to do while also meeting others with similar interests,” Kelly says. “There’s a diverse mix of opportunities, because the individuals we serve are very diverse.”
Outside of camps, Camp Encourage also offers camp events throughout the year that are free and open to autistic youth and their families. Seven events are planned throughout 2026, including swimming, s’mores, tie-dye, and canoeing. “These are spaces to keep our current campers’ cups filled, and also to welcome others who haven’t experienced Camp Encourage yet,” Kelly says.
Camp Encourage also offers training opportunities for local businesses, other camps, and nonprofits. Most of their staff members are former special education teachers, and they offer introductory training in understanding autism, as well as other trainings.
Real-Life Impact
“Society naturally creates so many barriers for kids with autism,” says Aimee Gorrow, program director. “We try to remove all the barriers we can so we can create this special environment where kids can go, have fun, and just ‘be.’”
Having a place to come, belong, and experience the freedom to be who they are is an incredibly meaningful experience for campers at Camp Encourage. Many campers have faced bullying outside of camp, and this year alone, 27% of campers have struggled with suicidal ideation, and 40-50% have struggled with anxiety or depression.
“Camp is such an important place,” says Kristi Loftus, camper support specialist. “Our campers are asked to wear a mask every day to fit into a mold that wasn’t made for them. Having a place where they can come, take that mask off, and see that there are people who will accept them for who they are is magical.”
Through the activities they participate in, campers build skills in impactful areas like emotional wellness, social skills, and independence, as well as exploring different recreational activities that may lead to further connections being built outside of camp. “It might not be natural for some of our campers to sit down at a table and connect through a conversation,” says Kelly. “But if we can teach them to connect through a game or activity, that’s a beautiful skill. We hope they walk away with lots of new skills and things they might be able to get involved with outside of camp.
Camp Encourage also represents a place where kids on the autism spectrum can come and be with other kids who also have autism. “For some of these kids, it might be their first time meeting someone like them,” says Kelly. “That’s powerful—to not feel alone anymore, and to know that other people are experiencing this, too. 15-20% of our volunteers are on the spectrum themselves, and being able to make those connections is huge.”
The skills, confidence, and bonds that kids form at Camp Encourage last long after they leave. “We hear stories every year about campers being able to go back to school and use the skills they learned at camp,” says Kristi. “And the connections made at camp continue as well.”
Looking Ahead
Camp Encourage is growing, continuing to look for new ways to serve and impact more autistic youth in our community. They’re adding a new summer session in 2026 for the first time, and their eyes are open for ways to continue growing in the future.
“Like many service providers, we’re seeing an increase in need,” says Kelly. “Our programming is growing, and we’re seeing a need for more support.”
The Children’s Services Fund’s support of Camp Encourage was focused largely on a specific role: the Camper Support Specialist. There are three people currently in this role, preparing campers both before they arrive at camp and supporting them during their camp experience.
Kristi, one of the Camper Support Specialists, describes the role this way: “The role is two-fold. Prior to camp, we read applications and reach out to families so we’ll know how to best support their camper if they’re having a hard time, whether that’s a sound machine, a weighted blanket, or something else. We also work hard to pair kids with adults who will be the best fit for them.
“Then, during camp, we’re available 24/7. Anytime a camper or a volunteer is in need, we’re there to support. Homesickness, trauma reactions, negative thoughts, agitation, overstimulation—no matter what it is, we’re there to help as an extra buffer to help campers stay at camp successfully and safely.”The CSF is humbled to be able to support the life-changing work happening at Camp Encourage. If you’d like to be a part of it as well, you can get involved by volunteering your time (part-time or full-time), spreading the word on social media, or giving financially. Learn more about Camp Encourage at their website.
