Columbus YMCA Promotes Inclusion with Special Needs Camp
Special Needs – Special Spirits
Columbus, Mississippi stands out as the city where inclusivity takes the spotlight at the local YMCA as they offer an unique holiday camp experience for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. By partnering with the organization “Special Needs – Special Spirits” the Columbus YMCA is spreading a strong message of acceptance and understanding what community truly means.
Camp Activities
The weeklong camp offers a variety of activities from arts & crafts and sports to swimming, providing an intellectually stimulating and physically engaging environment for campers. Activities Director Norma Jones fervently believes this camp provides an exceptional opportunity for teens and adults with disabilities to experience a vibrant and active way of living.
The Volunteers and their Dedication
The consecutive success of the camp owes much to its volunteers who are full-time employees in their respective fields. Norma Jones, a full-time principal at another school, expresses her pride and gratitude towards her team. Although growing every year, the camp has been able to maintain its essence due to its dedicated staff who provide an environment that respects, receives, and celebrates these special individuals on their own terms.
A Blessing for the Community
The program Director for the Columbus YMCA, Jeremy Brock, views this unique camp as a blessing for everyone involved, bringing people together and fostering a deeper sense of understanding and love. He is elated to see the positive impact the camp has not only on the campers but also their families and the broader community.
Summary
Approximately 30 campers participated in the program, bringing life, fun, and a lot of smiles to the YMCA. The camp is not only an occasion for these individuals to enjoy, learn, and grow, but it is also a great demonstration of what a community can do when it decides to embrace everyone.
