CONNECTING OUTSIDE OF CAMP
We love spending days with our camp "family" during camp sessions but also love to remain connected outside of camp sessions. We love seeing not only our campers but also their parents, siblings, classmates, and other loved ones; and, we believe staying in touch with our precious volunteers and supporters is valuable as well (and know our campers wholeheartedly agree). Thus, we developed FREE opportunities to gather called CAMP "FAMILY" EVENTS.
Join us in a welcoming, understanding, and safe environment. We'll gather, connect, grow, be encouraged, and learn from one another. These free events provide connection opportunities for current and potential:
- campers and their loved ones,
- volunteers, and
- supporters.
Click on the tabs below for a description of each upcoming CAMP "FAMILY" EVENT. Registering in advance is required so be sure to submit yours before slots fill.
2023 CAMP "FAMILY" EVENTS
Guests will be introduced to a panel of amazing autistic adults that will share the real and raw truth of their life on the spectrum. Discussions will include life then and now, relationships, work life, and so much more. Snacks and drinks will be provided. Saturday, March 25, 2023 1:00 to 3:00pm Kauffman Foundation Conference Center (4801 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO) This event is free, thanks to the generosity of Kyle's Gift. Tickets will not be available the day of the event. Registration closed on March 20th. Contact kloftus@campencourage.org if hoping to attend (although slots are not guaranteed unless cancellations occur). 12:45: Check in begins 1:00 Welcome and introductions 1:15: Through Our Eyes Discussion Featuring our Panelists 2:15: Q & A Period 2:45: Closing Thoughts MADI HOLCOMB: Madi Holcomb is an Autistic consultant and Advocate. She’s been volunteering with Camp Encourage since 2018 and is currently on the Board of Directors. She’s spoken at many events, including the Richard L. Simpson Conference on Autism. In her free time, she enjoys fantasy novels, role playing games, and spoiling her cat. CANON LINDGREN: Canon Lindgren is currently 25. He was diagnosed with ASD when he was seven. His first experience at Camp Encourage was at age 11 and he shares, "my self-esteem has improved ever since. Karaoke with Bongo Barry is a great memory from that session and being a part of this village is amazing." At age 14, he started volunteering at camp with his mom. This past summer, he was a camp counselor. High school was a bumpy chapter for Canon, as he went to four different schools. But, he had the best time his senior year in a K-Pop dance crew and made friends from several different countries. His primary interests are Japanese culture, language, and cooking. Currently, Canon is working on his Associates Degree at Johnson County Community College. He has a work-study job in the School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts. Concentrating on his current goals is a big effort. He have ideas for his future but for now, he is focusing on what he can handle one day at a time. KATIE PERRYMAN: Katie is currently 37 years old. Born and raised in Kansas City, Katie has a Master in Elementary Education and currently works as a paraprofessional for the Shawnee Mission School District Transition Services (18-21) program. She also tutors online and has volunteered at Camp Encourage since its founding year. When not working, Katie enjoys working out, spending time with family and friends, and watching comedies. She also has two pet frogs and two pet turtles. JUSTIN GRIFFEY: Justin is 32 years old, is from Kansas City, Missouri, loves military history, and is a Cashier at Price Chopper. His favorite band is the Foo Fighters. He loves BBQ & his favorite color is orange. He's always finding ways to proudly support his fellow Autistics in any way he can. Dreaming of summer? We are too! Please join us for a kick off to summer event! A covered shelter will be reserved and ice cream will be provided. Feel free to bring your own picnic dinner and a blanket or chairs, if you'd like. In addition to connecting on a lovely May day and enjoying ice cream, there will be boating (canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats) and fishing, both within 5-10 minutes of walking time. It is sure to be a good time for all! This is a free event open to the entire family! Please RSVP by May 15th. Sunday, May 28, 2023 4:00 to 6:00pm Timber Ridge Adventure Center (12300 S Homestead Lane Olathe, KS 66061) This event is free, thanks to the generosity of Kyle's Gift. Tickets will not be available the day of the event. Please register in advance and no later than May 15th. Join us for a summer swimming party! Participants will have the pool to themselves and be able to enjoy time to socialize and play without distractions from other patrons. Bring a towel and please bring swim wear appropriate for swimming, jumping, and playing (able to stay in place and be comfortable during play without the wearer having to worry about adjusting it). No large floaties are allowed, but life jackets and goggles may be used. Life guards will be on duty. Concessions will not be open, but snacks and drinks will be provided by Camp Encourage. Futher details will be finalized soon. Details will be announced soon.THROUGH OUR EYES: A PANEL OF AUTISTIC ADULTS
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ICE CREAM, BOATING, AND FISHING
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SUMMER SWIMMING
HOLIDAY GATHERING