Hello Special Camp Families,
What a year it has been! We hope this email finds you healthy and safe, enjoying time with the ones you love.
As many of you know, Special Camp had a different look this year. We were thrilled to host Virtual Special Camp for one week in late July. More than 45 Campers and 45 Counselors took part in the summer experience, many of whom have been long-time Special Camp participants. They engaged in themed activities that included games, a virtual zoo experience, science experiments, picture frame painting, cookie decorating, and much, much more! Campers and Counselors also had the opportunity to join small group conversations to provide the one-on-one attention and interaction that traditionally make our program so unique.
In an effort to combat feelings of isolation brought on by the pandemic, we made the decision to continue offering virtual programming free of charge to all of our participants throughout 2020. Campers and Counselors engaged socially via Zoom while enjoying chats & conversations, dance parties, games, yoga, crafts, and much more!
Historically, this time of year is quite busy for Special Camp – packed with holiday gatherings, hiring our Staff, and launching our Camper & Counselor Applications on January 1st of the new year. However, 2020 has taught us the importance of being flexible and adapting to the current environment. While we hope to find a sense of normalcy for our 30th anniversary next summer, we need additional time to understand what type of programming we can offer. As a result, Camper & Counselor Applications will not be released at this time. Please rest assured that we are working hard to create and safe and meaningful program for the summer of 2021! Special Camp will continue to seek guidance from the Orange County Health Care Agency, the CDC, and recommendations put forth by the American Camp Association when making programmatic decisions.
Regardless of the details of next summer, our mission will remain the same: friendship and fun are at the core of what Special Camp is all about! We look forward to providing you with an update within a few months.
Happy Holidays,
Lindsay Eres