Digital Credit Union awards HMEA’s Autism Resource Central $15,000 for Summer Camp Program

From HMEA's Autism Resource Central:

The summer camp program starts with a week of family activities in June for families in Central Massachusetts affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Families can sign up for the different activities such as movies and day trips to different places.  It is then followed in July by a week at Camp Havvago which is designed for youth and teens on the Autism Spectrum.  Campers are invited to ‘have a go’ at experiencing the fun and excitement of overnight camp within a structured, safe, nurturing environment designed to set you on the spectrum up for success.  Campers enjoy all the fun of camp – swimming, boating, crafts, nature exploration, campfires, cabin life, and more – all while building their social skills, independence, and self-confidence.  Camp Havvago operates with a 1:1 staff-to-camper ratio.  The last part of the camp program happens in August with a week of activities at family day camp.

 “We are excited to have the support of a local bank, DCU, to support our efforts in providing the Summer Camp Program for our families.” said Sue Loring, Director of HMEA’s Autism Resource Central. “The benefits of the Summer Camp Program range from developing various skills such as independence, making friends, improved communication and socialization skills to families having an avenue to spend some quality fun time together.”

Mrs. Loring added that DCU has been a great support to the autism community in central Massachusetts and we are grateful for their donation.  The center supports over 3,000 families and every donation goes towards providing much needed resources to them. The center provides education and support for families with loved ones diagnosed with the Autism Spectrum Disorder here in central Massachusetts; we also offer fun activities that provide families an accepting and understanding environment to connect; social events such as prom, dance nights for teens with ASD, a holiday party for the whole family, parent and siblings workshops and fun activities; a library with over 1,000 books free for families to access.  

For further information about donating, please contact:

Wanja Kiraguri, Event & Development Coordinator

HMEA’s Autism Resource Central

508-298-1607

wanjak@hmea.org

About the Center:

HMEA’s Autism Resource Central was conceived in 1996 by a group of parents to serve primarily as an information and referral service for children and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders.  Their mission is to support and empower these families to raise their children and support their adult children to be full members of their communities and become responsively independent and effectively interdependent, so that they are valued as gifted people and protected from harm.

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