Camp Chronicle 2012

CAMP ROYALL

SUMMER PROGRAM 2012

CAMP CHRONICLE www.autismsociety-nc.org

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TABLE OF CONTENTS FEATURES: 3

LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR

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STAFF HIGHLIGHT: SAM KIZER

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CAMPER HIGHLIGHT: TOMMY GUTHRIE-JOHNSON

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FAMILY HIGHLIGHT: THE BRYSONS

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CAMPER HIGHLIGHT: SEBASTIAN DAWKINS

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PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: THE SNOEZELEN ROOM

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2012 Summer Camp Staff

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2012 Summer Camp Volunteers

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2012 Scholarship Donors

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CAMP ROYALL Wish list

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Year-Round Camp Opportunities

CAMP CHRONICLE

The Camp Chronicle is published by the Autism Society of North Carolina for campers, parents, and the counselors and professionals who work with the Autism Society of North Carolina Summer Camp Program.

Content: Sara Gage and Lesley Fraser Photographer: Augaly Kiedy Editor: Terry Ramsay Graphic Designer: Beth Haynes For more information, contact: Sara Gage Camp Royall 250 Bill Ash Road Moncure, NC 27559 P (919) 542-1033 F (919) 542-6343 sgage@autismsociety-nc.org.

505 Oberlin Road, Suite 230 • Raleigh, NC 27605-1345 (919) 743-0204 • (800) 442-2762 • Fax: (919) 743-0208 www.autismsociety-nc.org

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LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR Dear Campers, Families, and Friends of Camp, We just completed our 41st season of summer camping (our 16th at Camp Royall) and our third year of year-round programming. We have seen many great successes at camp and have been encouraged by the continued growth in our programs.

I hope you enjoy this look back on the summer of 2012 as much as I do. This summer, we served 336 campers ages 4-64 from fifty-three counties across the state. We are always humbled to see how far our families travel so that their loved ones can experience camp.

Camp Royall was home to over fifty staff members who traveled from all over the country and as far as the United Kingdom to spend their summer creating magical memories for our campers.

We were thrilled to introduce our completed Snoezelen room to our summer campers. It has been a soothing space for all of our campers and has created some great opportunities for learning and growth. See page 16 for the full story on this unique space.

I hope that your experience at camp enriched your family’s summer and that you are looking forward to a great fall season. Please check out page 24 for details on our year-round programs and make plans to join us at camp during the “off season.”

With much “Enthuuuuusiasm,”

Sara Gage Program Director

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CAMP ROYALL SUMMER 2012 www.autismsociety-nc.org

“I have three words for ya Best. Camp. Ever!”

- Chad

“Camp has been an amazing experience because I am constantly learning - about myself, about autism, everything!

My campers taught me more than I could ever teach them.”

- Rebecca Spurlin, Counselor

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STAFF HIGHLIGHT: SAM KIZER Camp, for me, has come full circle. I started as a camper many years ago, and this summer, I returned as a counselor. It is a significant part of my journey from a dependent HFA child to an independent HFA adult.

When I was a camper in middle school, the week that I spent at camp was one where I could truly be myself - a week when all my quirks and attitudes were normal and where autism was celebrated. I felt free at camp; no one was there to judge me. I started to regard my autism as a blessing as opposed to a curse, and as something I can use to my advantage. Above all else, of course, camp was a grand time with remarkable people. Through the engagement in activities and the hilarity of interacting with other teens, I grew as a person. I learned that we are all a little different and that we all have particular interests and needs, but nothing should block our colorful personalities from shining.

When my Dad told me I needed a summer job, Camp Royall was the first place that came to mind. I avoided applying for quite some time; honestly, I greatly doubted my ability to succeed. I thought of my autism as a charge on a magnet, and I was worried that everyone else on the spectrum would have the same charge - I would, theoretically, repel anyone I worked with at camp. But when I realized that there were no job opportunities at home, I decided to take the risk and apply.

I had no idea what I was getting myself into. The only autism I had ever dealt with was my own, and I questioned whether I would be capable of successful interaction with others on the spectrum. I got some comfort from knowing that I would not have been hired if the directors did not have faith in my abilities, but I was concerned that my autism may pose problems in critical social situations.

It took approximately five minutes after I moved in to realize that I was in the right place. There is a positive, accepting spirit at camp that cannot be replicated anywhere else.

Working at camp allowed me to learn about myself in a new way; my personal limits were tested, my behavior control challenged, and my self-awareness radically upgraded. Camp improved my understanding of how to handle difficult social situations, and helped me to grasp that no situation is unsolvable.

Most importantly, working at camp gave me the ability to see in each camper what others have seen in me. Not their autism, but their individual worth as a whole person. It’s a gift I cherish.

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“Camp Royall is such a beautiful and inspiring place. It is place where love and laughter are shared, where individuals and life itself are celebrated, and where memories are made and lasting friendships are fostered.

Camp Royall is it’s own kind of magic.”

-Ania Grodzinski, Counselor

Emily: You’re a great camper, Matthew.

Matthew: I know. I was born to survive.

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“I’ve laughed harder this summer than I can remember laughing anywhere else. The campers showed me how to ‘live in the moment’ and appreciate life’s little joys, because if you keep a lookout, they’re everywhere.”

–Alison Smith, Counselor

“If I get broken, will you have to glue me back together?” - Tucker “It’s hard to be a day camper in a sleep-away world.” - Jake

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CAMPER HIGHLIGHT: TOMMY GUTHRIE-JOHNSON Tommy’s 36 pound, 7 year old self may be small in stature, but he more than makes up for it in his energy, his personality, his stylish attire, and his zeal for life. This year was Tommy’s third summer at Camp Royall (the lucky winner of a waiting list spot the last 2 summers) and he certainly made the most of his time here, taking part in all activities and giving his counselor a daily workout.

Tommy is well-known around camp, always greeting the other campers and counselors and working his way into the middle of the hustle and bustle of camp. He is constantly asking to spin and swirl. In fact, he is affectionately known as Tommy the Tiny Tornado. He has a contagious smile, a knack for exploration, and a hug that will melt your heart.

According to Tommy’s mom, Melissa, his energy level can be a lot to keep up with. For his family, camp provides Tommy a positive outlet while also giving them some much needed down time.

“When our son goes to Camp Royall, it is the only respite our family has all year. It is a true gift, especially for our daughter, who needs our attention and time without her brother present. Knowing that Tommy is in qualified hands, truly enjoying himself but staying safe, allows us to rest and enjoy each other in a way that is not possible the rest of the year.”

He and his family are also regulars at our Family Fun Days, a popular weekend program that takes place when summer camp is not in session.

Tommy and his sister both enjoy activities and fun during these special days. They get a chance to play with other kids just like them, as well as trained volunteers who are understanding and encouraging. It’s also a great time for the parents to network with other families, share stories, and benefit from the inclusive environment.

“Camp Royall is the most welcoming, affirming place we have experienced for our son and for our entire family. It is a place where Tommy is not only accepted, but celebrated and engaged. His strengths are drawn out and we are reminded of the joy that he brings amidst the challenges.”

Camp Royall is always full of fun and energy, but even more so when Tommy is with us. We are grateful that Tommy’s family trusts us to care for their tiny tornado!

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“Ms. Denise, I know what the three principles of art are - patience, enjoying doing art, and being creative.”

- Jack

“Camp has completely changed my life. I had no idea that ten weeks could make you see the world differently. I have never felt luckier than knowing that I have made such an incredible difference in someone’s life, but even more lucky to know that such amazing people could make a difference in mine. Camp has been a place for me to call home, and people to call family.

I couldn’t have asked for a more incredible place to spend my summer and make lasting memories!”

–Laura Cochran, Counselor

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“I’m having a happy ending. Camp was a blast!” - Owen (on Friday morning)

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FAMILY HIGHLIGHT: THE BRYSONS When Mary Bryson received the news that her sons, Nicholas, 12, and Joshua, 10, had received funding to attend Camp Royall, she cried. As a single Mom, Mary struggles to keep up with the financial challenges of raising two boys on the autism spectrum, and summer camp was a luxury that she never thought they would be able to experience.

She describes both of her boys as “active, busy, happy, and very different.” Nicholas, the oldest, is starting middle school this year, and working on his orange belt in karate. He is also interested in the creative arts, including theatre, drawing, and sculpting. Nicholas is higher functioning than his brother, and he is working hard on his social skills and mixing more with his peers.

Joshua is going into fifth grade this fall. He has a wide variety of interests, including classical music, swimming, and Miracle League baseball. He spends hours on the trampoline. Joshua struggles with language and communication, so he is often active around other children, rather than directly interactive with them.

In Mary’s words, bringing up two children on the autism spectrum is “intense.” Along with typical parenting demands, she juggles multiple therapy appointments for each child every week. And because of Joshua’s lack of communication skills, he will often end up in a public tantrum if he is in a situation that he doesn’t understand. She says, “It takes a lot of energy. I have to be vigilant all of the time.”

This is the third summer that scholarship monies have enabled Nicholas and Joshua to attend camp. The first summer that the boys attended camp, Mary was so anxietyridden that she waited at home for the phone call asking her to pick up one or both of the boys. The call never came. Now, all three of them are excited and smiling when the time for camp drop-off comes. “Nicholas was actually introducing himself to other campers. And he was assigned the same counselor as last summer, so they were really happy to see each other.”

Joshua was so elated to be at camp this year, he changed into his bathing suit right away and surprised Mary by exclaiming, “Bye, bye, Mom.” That is the first time he had ever used that phrase completely unprompted.

Nicholas and Joshua’s counselors both noticed an increase in social skills and independence as a result of their week at camp. Nicholas’s counselor noted, “He was especially more open to initiating conversation with his peers. He tried fishing for the first time and caught ten fish throughout the week. He was so proud of himself and wanted me to take a picture and tell his Mom all about it. He shined in the pool and found two campers to play with each day.”

Joshua’s counselor said, “I fell in love with him and felt like we had a very strong connection. He increased in playfulness and became much more comfortable with new people as the week went on. Joshua also did something rare for him: he spoke an entire sentence! As a person who normally only uses 2-3 words or very short phrases, I was so excited to hear him say, ‘One chocolate chip cookie for Joshua, please.’”

The opportunity to attend summer camp at Camp Royall allows Nicholas and Joshua to thrive in an environment where they are accepted and nurtured. And for Mary, it provides a much-needed break where she can relax and trust that her sons are being well taken care of.

“It makes a huge difference in our family,” says Mary. “There’s nowhere else that a family can leave their children with autism and feel so comfortable. It’s a great blessing.”

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WHAT PARENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT CAMP ROYALL

“The activities were wonderful! Sam experienced things he never has done before, and he is gaining an independence that even some of his typically-developing friends don’t have. This camp provides a service to campers, families, and their communities that is truly immeasurable.” u Susan Miller-Cochran (Raleigh)

“Every year I cry when our son receives his camp award - it is the one time during the year that we get to hear how wonderful he is and how someone enjoyed spending time with him! I can’t tell you how much this means to us and how these words keep us going during the difficult times.” u Michelle Cannon (Pittsboro)

“Camp Royall is truly a magical place.

The setting is beautiful, the people are wonderful, and the experience for the WHOLE family is life-altering in the best way.”

“We are so grateful for the chance Andrew had to be a super star. He lives in a world where his best is never quite enough, but at Camp Royall, he was surrounded by cheerleaders who got to know and love his personality, recognized his efforts, and supported him. He came home feeling confident! How can we thank you enough for that?” u Alice Marie Miller (Cary)

“I wish I were a bazillionaire, because every autistic individual in North Carolina should have the opportunity to go to Camp Royall. I’d send Jamie all summer if allowed. He is happier at Camp Royall than almost anywhere. Additionally, every single personal interaction with staff is extremely positive and reassuring. There are such a variety of activities, and everything is so individualized. Camp Royall should be the model for every camp (‘regular’ or ‘special needs’)!!! Can’t say enough positive things.” u Alice Petersen (Durham)

“We couldn’t ask for a better place or group of people that truly understand autism...”

“Camp Royall is a wonderful place for children/adults with autism to participate in a full range of camp experiences, while we (parents/guardians) get a week of respite. Thank you for creating such a wonderful environment!” u Elizabeth Phillipi (Charlotte)

“My daughter absolutely loves Camp Royall. We couldn’t ask for a better place or group of people that truly understand autism and allow our kids to be who they are without judgment, but with the utmost love and encouragement.” u Marina Jorge (Jacksonville)

“Camp Royall is truly a magical place. The setting is beautiful, the people are wonderful, and the experience for the WHOLE family is life-altering in the best way. This was our second visit to camp and it was amazing to watch my Samuel recognize camp in the social story online, anticipate his arrival on the drive there, and then basically kick my husband and I out so his fun could begin! It really has made me step back to realize that my boys are growing up and need to have more opportunities for independence.” u Amy Soderstrom (Greenville)

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“[Our son] came home feeling confident!

How can we thank you enough for that?”

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“Camp has been the best experience this summer. I got to meet so many wonderful people and work with so many amazing campers. I’m so blessed to have been given the chance to make so many connections and to realize that autism is a beautiful world that I wish everyone could embrace.”

–Shauna Yates, Counselor

“I’m going to miss my schedule.”

- Camper

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CAMPER HIGHLIGHT: SEBASTIAN DAWKINS One of our outstanding first-time campers this summer was 20 year-old Sebastian Dawkins. Sebastian made a point to learn every camper and staff member’s name, and he worked hard at being friendly and outgoing. His gentle disposition quickly helped him make many friends at camp.

Sebastian’s Mom, Lori, says, “Sebastian has always deeply wanted to make friends and fit in. But his innate kindness and trusting nature have caused some problems with him choosing friends in the past. In high school, some boys acted like they were friends with Sebastian and took advantage of him. At camp, though, he naturally made real friends, which was his favorite part of the experience.”

Sebastian genuinely blossomed at camp. He took part in all of the activities, and he especially loved gym games and karaoke night. He showed off his singing skills and took on the role of MC at the talent show. Most importantly, he felt comfortable to be himself, relishing the independence and freedom that he was allowed at camp.

Happily, the successes that Sebastian had at camp followed him home.

On his first day of college, he was making his way around campus to find a class when he ran into a friend he had made at camp. As a senior, his friend Josh showed him around campus that day and the two reconnected.

Since then, they’ve spent time together at the movies and exploring each other’s local neighborhoods, and they are both benefitting from this renewed friendship.

Lori says, “If it had not been for Camp Royall, Sebastian would not have had this great welcoming experience at college. We are so grateful for the unexpected blessings that camp has brought into our lives.”

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PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: THE SNOEZELEN ROOM Research has shown that individuals with disabilities often experience reduced tension, enhanced self-esteem, and the ability to more fully participate in activities after using a sensory room. For years, we have longed for a sensory space for our campers, but we simply did not have the funds to make it happen.

Thanks to the generosity of our friends at the Ronald McDonald House Charities, Camp Royall received two grants that finally made this dream a reality. The first grant came in 2007 and it was matched in 2011 - putting the total award at $20,000. Pat and Paul Willoughby, the owners of PPR Foods, which operates several local McDonald’s franchises, were instrumental in making this happen.

We worked with FlagHouse, a company that specializes in resources for recreation, special needs, and multisensory integration, to develop a Snoezelen room. The Snoezelen room is a multisensory environment for our campers, allowing them to exercise choice while gently stimulating their primary senses.

With the funds we were awarded in 2007, we purchased a bubble tube, a therapeutic rocking chair, a fiber optic light spray, a solar projector, and some smaller pieces of equipment. We developed a floor plan for the space and began arranging the materials in a way that would enhance the experience for our campers.

We soon realized that we were not going to be able to complete the vision we had in mind for this space without additional funding. We were immensely grateful when we learned that the Ronald McDonald House Charities would match the original grant to provide the remaining necessary equipment.

In the fall of 2011 we were able to complete the space based on the original plans put into place back in 2007. Our maintenance staff labored to rewire the room, install specialized cushions, and hang mirrors and other equipment so that the room would stand out as a one-of-a-kind creation. We invited our generous donors to camp in December of 2011 for a ribbon cutting celebration and a tour of the space.

Since the room has been completed, over 1,000 campers and family members have had access to the space and been able to benefit from the unique sensory experience. You can learn more about this type of sensory environment at the Snoezelen website: www.snoezeleninfo.com.

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“When I go to the Sensory Room, my brain feels cool. It says, ‘Awesome!

Awesome!’” - Peter

“I have never been in a place that I feel so comfortable being me, where we all treat each other like family. We all share something really special at camp, and it is inexplicable to anyone that has not experienced it for themselves.”

–Emily Piper, Counselor

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“I love this place.”

- Camper

“This summer has pretty much changed my entire outlook on life. I’ve learned so much about myself and the world around me that I didn’t even know I was missing before. There is something really amazing happening here. Thank you for the opportunity to be here this summer. I can’t imagine having spent my summer any other way.”

–Lilliann Vigil, Counselor

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Maeghan: Jack, how do those French toast sticks taste?

Jack: Like butter from the sweetest pie.

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2012 CAMP ROYALL STAFF...

Program Director: Sara Gage [16]

Assistant Program Director: Lesley Fraser [5]

ASNC Property Manager: David Yell [21]

Administrative Assistant: Blake Gore

Facility Staff: Randy Keck [5] Lawson Whitaker [15] Ed Wolfram [3] Brenda Howell [13] Robin Griffith [2] Stephen Qualls Crystal Perry [7] Linda Burgess [4] Emily Burgess [3] Ricky Sampson [8] James Walsh [13]

Nurses: Terry Bynum [5] Jim Bedford [5] Tracey King [3] Karen Skowronski [2] Tina Harris [2] Brook Jenkins [2] 20

Activity Directors: Kenny Rosander [7] Mark Smith [6] Martha Routh [4] Cassie Ball [3] Denise Dixon [3] Maeghan Sill [3]

Jess Royal [3] Elizabeth McGuffin [3] Tara Regan [3] Louiza Hamidi [3] Kendal Waite [2]

Program Staff: Carrie McMillan [5] Kate Luettich [4] Joanie Winter [4] Kaity Longo [3] Will Murray [3] Madison Gardner [3] Elisabeth Rubin [3] Alex Rasmussen [2] Amanda Lazaro [2] Ania Grodzinski [2] Anneke Demmink [2] Dani Wayman [2] Emma Sullivan [2] Emmalee Decker [2] Jenna Vescio [2] Julie Lotz [2] Rebecca Spurlin [2] Jordan Ammons Logan Campbell Lauren Chida Heather Cirmo Laura Cochran Kendyl Cole

Kaiti Dunlap Courtney Graham Casey Greer Chris Horton Augaly Kiedy Sam Kizer Jessie Lloyd Sara Lust Erin Mooneyham Emily Moore Brittany Norman Anders Orn Hannah Owens Emily Piper Juliana Poletti Erin Royal Spencer Rubin Michelle Scatamacchia David Shin Alison Smith Catherine Smith Lilliann Vigil Shauna Yates

[ ] indicates number of summers on staff www.camproyall.org www.autismsociety-nc.org

...AND VOLUNTEERS! We are extremely grateful to the professionals from the Autism Society of North Carolina and various parts of the autism community who helped to educate and guide us throughout the summer. Their expertise enabled us to serve our campers with the highest possible level of care.

We also want to recognize those who so generously donated their time to support us. Your dedication was inspirational and very much appreciated!

Trainers / Consultants / Volunteers John Ambrosio Angelina’s Kitchen in Pittsboro Leica Anzaldo ASNC Parent Advocates ASNC Raleigh Administrative Staff Shannon Bedford Paul Benbow Katie Brady Kaitlin Breckinridge Courtney Brown Michelle Chinn Cannon Carolina Living and Learning Center Staff Chatham County Fire Marshall Jamie Cosenza Warren Croom Mike Graves Scott Graves Shockley Hall Ellie Hanna Amy Hobbs Jailee Hollars Sam Jennings

Carson Jones Benjamin and Samuel Keck Kate Kennedy Linda King-Thomas, DTA Knightly Order of the Fiat Lux Scott Lambeth Addy Miller Kaitlin Moncol Maureen Morrell Andy Murray Erica Nesbit Carolyn Penn Brittany Robertson Jordan Skowronski John Thomas Kelli Ussery Lori Verma Logan Welker Wendy Welker Joanie Winter Leslie Ann, Caroline, Tessa, and Drew Yell

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Many thanks to our Camp Royall donors. With the support of the following individuals, businesses, and foundations, the Autism Society of North Carolina provided over $150,000 in scholarships for summer camp 2012. u $25,000+ Mary Louise and John Burress • • • BB&T Charitable Foundation $10,000-$24,999 Carolina Brewmasters Oktoberfest The Elizabeth A. Hudspeth Endowment Fund of Cumberland Community Foundation, Inc. Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Carolina Triangle Community Foundation “Send a Kid to Camp” $5,000-$9,999 Kim Harris and Scott Weiner Pat and Paul Willoughby/ PPR Foods • • • The Cemala Foundation The Charlotte Observer/Partners in Out of School Time CreditSuisse The Pratt Family Foundation $2,500-$4,999 ASNC Pitt County Chapter ASNC Wake County Chapter Carolina Panthers Charities of Foundation For The Carolinas Crabby Hatters Golden State Foods Foundation Chris Mentas/Custom Home Improvements, LLC Pfizer, Inc. The Women of Fearrington, Inc. $1,000-$2,499 Janet and James Cozart Leslie and Michael Graves Kathleen Krumpter Chris Norton Margaret and Paul Phillippi • • • Allstate Foundation ASNC Jackson/Swain/Qualla Boundary Chapter ASNC Vance/Warren County Chapter ATO-XI Foundation Caison Enterprises, Inc./ McDonald’s Carolina Hurricanes Booster Club, Inc. The Eddie and Jo Allison Smith Family Foundation, Inc.

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The Elder Family Foundation Trust Helen L. DeSoto Scholarship Fund Manning Enterprises Ltd./ McDonald’s The Mary Margaret McLeod Fund for Deserving Children in Lee County of Triangle Community Foundation Mercedes Benz of Cary Panduit, Inc. The Penny Fund Premiere Communication & Consulting, Inc. RTI International RTP Signs & Graphics S&J Foods, Inc. Think! Promotional Group Top Shelf Containers, LLC USA Flooring Wake Electric Care Foundation Walker Auto Stores Young Agents Committee of NC $500-$999 Floride Carpenter Allison and Douglas Eisner Deborah and Rene Gonzales Dolores McGovern Jeanne McGovern and Michael Schwenk Priscilla Morris Brenda Penland Julia Price Scott Gina Stocton Mildred and Dillard Teer • • • ASNC Johnston County Chapter ASNC Onslow County Chapter ASNC Orange/Chatham County Chapter Commercial Site Design Kohl’s Corporation North Carolina Community Foundation Raleigh Kiwanis Foundation, Inc. Sokal Media Group, Inc. Susan A. ReCorr Charitable Fund of Triangle Community Foundation Taylor Freezer Sales Company of Virginia Triangle Community Foundation, Inc. US Foods Wells Fargo Social Responsibility Group

$250-$499 Emmett Aldredge/Machine & Welding Supply Company Alexander Arnn Joan Barlow Rebecca Coffee Melissa and Jason Culbreth Eugene Davis Carole and Richard Edmonds Betsy and Mike Gaona Linda and Greg Gombar Susanne Harris Cathy and William Heitman Joseph Hodskins Barbara and Geoff Imboden Janice and Kevin Kidd Eileen and Daniel Koehler Michael Mahoney Maureen and Rob Morrell Patricia and Howard Oelrich Lynne Romyn Sandra and William Steele Joshua Steelman Phillip Wallwork Kristy and Andrew White • • • ASNC Alamance County Chapter BB&T Cantara, LLC/McDonald’s McDonald’s Corporation McDonald’s CC MAC Corp.

McEntire Produce Smith Breeden Associates, Inc. State Farm Insurance Company Tracey Stidham Insurance Agency, Inc. $100 - $249 David Abels Marilyn and Walter Aiello Lang Anderson Marjorie Angell Tina and Bill Baxter Nancy and Jon Beale Susan and Donald Beck Jamezetta and Edward Bedford Barbara and Joel Bentley Mary Berridge Jim Brooks Louise and Robert Burkey Amy and Leonard Bush Jane and Eston Campbell Georgia and Nick Chotas Marlene and Orval Conner Virginia and Charles Craft Michelle Davis Gabriel Dichter Katie and David Driggs Sheila Fairchild Kristen and Zachary Feldman Christina and Gordon Flake Elizabeth Fouts Grover Godwin Peggy and Todd Graham Elaine and Chester Gurski Jay Hall

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Kate and Harvey Hall George Holloway Cynthia Hoyt and Hannah Fouts Carin and Paul Huegel Mary Iffert Suzanne and Daryl Jones Annie and Michael Joseph Regina and William Kaiser Lucy and Jim Kurz Lorraine LaPointe Barbara and Pete Louis Faye and Steve Marron Carol Martin Sharon and Randy Martin Sue and Jan Martin JoAnna Massoth and Dan Barnes Gertrude and Wesley McDougald Gayle and Wayne Meredith Lyda and Rich Mihalyi Beverly and Alan Moore Carol and Chuck Moore Jean and Kenneth Oakley Rollie Olin Emily Onorato and Maryellen Smith Ruby Owens Susan and Larry Pearman Fran Pearson Collette and Commie Pendergrass Donna and John Proudfit Holly and Timothy Reiter Maryanne and Julian Rosenman Sarah and Leonard Safrit Yvonne Sagers Maureen and William Scott Shelley and Jeffrey Segal Peggy and Ray Shufelt Mitchell Smith Susan and Derek Smith Catherine and Frederic Staley Ann and Steve Timberlake Dawn and Michael Underwood Linda Varblow and James Holloway Sallie and Harry Walker Patricia and Clive Winney Mary and Richard Wolf Claudia Yalden Beth and Thomas Young Jan Zeller and John Townson • • • Autism Outreach Carolina Orthopedic and Physical Therapy, Inc. Foelgner Ronz & Straw, PA The Franklin Hotel Jackson County Psychological Services, PA KTL McDonald’s LLC Larry High Insurance Rices Glass Company Walkers Shortbread, Inc.

CAMP ROYALL WISH LIST If you want to support camp through material donations, we would be grateful to receive the following items: Arts and Crafts Wishes • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Glue/glue sticks Paint (fabric paint, tempera paint, face paint, water colors, finger paint) Painting supplies (brushes, small paint containers, water color paper) Felt Pipe cleaners Glitter Googly eyes Stickers Toilet paper and paper towel rolls (just the cardboard roll in center) Plain white T-shirts of all sizes (youth small – adult 4XL) Dry erase markers (all sizes and colors) Sharpie markers (black ultra fine point, fine point and regular) Tie dye supplies Tapes of all kinds (especially blue painters tape)

General Program Wishes • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Ziploc baggies (sandwich size and gallon size) Address labels (peel and stick) Postage stamps Toilet paper Liquid hand soap Hand sanitizer Baby wipes Flashlights Night lights (and bulbs) Board/card games Digital timers Paddle boat Golf cart

Please give what you can to help us continue to make camp a special place for all. Every little bit helps!

Our most crucial need at camp will always be monetary donations to help us provide scholarships to campers in need. Please consider making a donation on our website today! www.camproyall.org

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YEAR-ROUND CAMP OPPORTUNITIES FAMILY FUN DAYS During Family Fun Days, Camp Royall is open to all families in North Carolina who have a family member on the autism spectrum. Access to the gym, playground, arts & crafts, and other camp-related activities will be available. Feel free to bring your own gear for fishing, biking, and rollerblading.

FAMILY CAMPING After Family Fun Days have wound down, enjoy a family camping experience designed to meet the needs of campers on the autism spectrum.

Dinner is provided, and evening activities include movies, a campfire, access to the gym, and an overnight stay in our cabins.

MINI-CAMP WEEKENDS These weekends provide a Friday through Sunday outdoor camp experience for individuals on the autism spectrum, regardless of age.

Priority is given to those living at home over those living in a group home setting.

ADULT RETREAT WEEKENDS (HFA) Adults 18 years of age and older with high functioning autism can come and spend a weekend with friends in a fun and safe setting. Independent adults on the spectrum enjoy fun leisure and recreational activities, as well as community outings.

WINTER DAY CAMP Camp Royall will offer Day Camp over the holidays in December 2012.

Camp activities, community outings, and lots of fun await you at our Winter Day Camp.

HOLIDAY PARTIES Come celebrate the holidays with us at Camp Royall! We will host a Family Fun Day in December, with a special visit from Santa. High functioning adults are also invited to attend a holiday party where they can celebrate the season at camp with friends.

GROUP RENTAL Camp Royall is available for group rentals, so please consider us for your next birthday party, church outing, family reunion, or corporate event.

There is so much fun to be had at camp year-round! For schedules and information, please visit www.camproyall.org.

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