Heartspring’s CARE (Community of Autism Resources and Education) Program will host its annual summer day camp program for 40 individuals with high-functioning autism and Asperger’s syndrome June 4–8 and June 11–15.

Campers will come together at Camp SSTAR (Social Skills Technology Asperger Recreation) to participate in typical camp activities with a twist.

Children with autism and Asperger’s often lack success in developing interpersonal relationships. Typical camp activities such as fishing, team building games, art, gardening, and camp challenges are structured to promote acquisition of social skills, organizational skills, and communication skills that are often difficult for these individuals.

“In our fifth year, we are pleased to provide a camp that has evolved into a true stepping stone of opportunities for many of our individuals in their schools, homes and the community at large,” Director of CARE and 2011 Lindt Unsung Heroes of Autism award winner Connie Erbert said.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recently estimated that one in every 88 children are diagnosed with autism, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined.

The Heartspring CARE Program works to meet the unique needs of families by providing resources and services within a community of collaboration centered on autism spectrum disorders. For more information, please contact Connie Erbert at cerbert@heartspring.org.