STARability completes inaugural Summer Camp

STARability Foundation recently concluded its inaugural Summer Camp, providing structured, engaging experiences for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. Hosted at River Park Community Center and made possible in part through funding from the Naples Children Foundation, the program brought together local families, community partners and inclusive programming to ensure people of all abilities continued to have access to engaging summer experiences.

When a longstanding community summer camp was no longer available, STARability connected with River Park Community Center and surveyed local families to better understand their needs and identify the best path forward. Prior to launch, 14 of 15 survey respondents indicated interest in attending a STARability summer camp. Based on that strong community response, STARability’s program team developed the camp from the ground up, creating a structured summer option during a season when consistent routines can be especially important for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.

Held in June and July, the program welcomed 18 campers, with up to 12 participants attending each day. Families could choose half- or full-day enrollment and schedules ranging from select days to full-week participation, providing flexibility to meet varying family needs. Seven counselors, including a dedicated one-on-one aide, supported an approximately 1:3 staff-to-participant ratio, allowing campers to receive individualized attention while building meaningful relationships throughout the summer. STARability also utilized its wheelchair-accessible van each day, enabling a camper with mobility and support needs to fully participate in activities and community outings while reducing transportation burdens on the family.

River Park Community Center played an important supporting role by providing the space for STARability to operate the camp and coordinating shared use of the facility. The organizations also collaborated to create opportunities for campers to take part in inclusive experiences together, including a Color Run, neighborhood walks and swim lessons.

“Summer can be a particularly challenging time for families seeking structured, supportive opportunities for their loved ones, and we recognized the importance of preserving access to these experiences in our community,” said Madison Nehls, chief program officer for STARability Foundation. “Thanks to the generosity of the Naples Children Foundation, the support of River Park Community Center and the many businesses and organizations that contributed to this effort, we were able to create a program that addressed an immediate community need while giving campers opportunities to learn, build friendships, gain confidence and enjoy an unforgettable summer.”

Designed entirely by STARability’s program team, the camp featured weekly themes and activities tailored to participants’ interests, abilities and support needs. Prior to camp, staff developed individualized camper profiles, created enrollment materials, met with families, coordinated staffing plans and hosted a Family Night to help ensure a successful experience for every participant.

Campers enjoyed recurring activities including yoga, bowling, dance, art classes through STAR Studio, improv workshops with The Naples Players, nutrition and cooking classes, swimming and daily neighborhood walks that promoted healthy, active lifestyles. Weekly themes tied activities together while encouraging creativity, social interaction and skill development.

The program also leveraged partnerships throughout Southwest Florida to provide enriching community experiences. Campers visited Naples Botanical Garden, Freedom Waters Foundation, Wonder Gardens, IMAG History & Science Center, Rookery Bay, local libraries, Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre and the movie theater. Additional experiences included activities at STARability’s THRIVEability Garden and participation in other STARability programs, further connecting campers with opportunities available throughout the year.

The impact was reflected in feedback from participating families. One parent shared, “STARability Summer Camp was one of the highlights of our son’s summer. We watched him grow in confidence, independence and social connection while being fully included in a safe, supportive environment where he was encouraged to thrive. STARability provided so much more than summer program. We are incredibly grateful for the impact it has had on our family.” The parent added that, as a working family, knowing their son was “not only well cared for but genuinely flourishing” provided tremendous peace of mind. In STARability’s post-camp satisfaction survey, 100% of responding families reported being satisfied with their camp experience and indicated they would enroll again if the program is offered in the future.

“This inaugural camp demonstrates what’s possible when nonprofits, community partners and families work together to meet an important need,” said Nehls. “The support we received helped us create an inclusive program where every camper felt welcomed, supported and empowered. Seeing participants grow in confidence, develop friendships and look forward to coming back each day reinforced just how meaningful this experience was for our campers and their families.”

The Summer Camp reflects STARability’s ongoing commitment to creating innovative programs that empower individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities to build confidence, develop meaningful relationships and engage more fully in their communities. By collaborating with community partners and responding to the evolving needs of local families, STARability continues to expand opportunities that foster greater independence and lifelong success.

To learn more about STARability Foundation and its innovative programs and services, visit STARability.org.