What is Camp G.R.A.C.E.?
Camp G.R.A.C.E. is a day camp designed for children with Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), Autism Spectrum Disorder and other special needs. Each one-week session of Camp G.R.A.C.E. focuses on building specific skills and incorporates therapeutic ideas from many disciplines.
Camp G.R.A.C.E. Sessions
There will be eight weeks of Camp G.R.A.C.E. this summer. July 3 is a holiday, and camp will be closed.
We offer two different sessions: Social Skills and Building Blocks. Social Skills Sessions are designed for children who do not require one-on-one assistance. The focus of these sessions will be on activity skill building, teamwork activities and social situations. The Building Blocks sessions are designed with a smaller ratio to allow for more individual attention.
Throughout their camp session, children will work and play within their huddles to learn new games, complete art projects, participate in music and dog therapy times and much more. Children will also enjoy water and sensory integration activities, as well as time for character and social skills development.
Applications for Camp G.R.A.C.E.
Camp G.R.A.C.E. is an application-based program. The application process opens on Jan. 1 for returning participants. New participants may apply beginning on Feb. 1. Once completed, a director will reach out to you in 2-3 weeks about your child's participation at camp this summer. You will not be able to register for Camp G.R.A.C.E. until your application has been reviewed by a director.
Due to extremely high demand, we are no longer accepting applications for Camp G.R.A.C.E. at the Northwest Cary YMCA for Summer 2026. At this time, all spots have been offered for this summer and there is no remaining space. We are proud to provide Camp G.R.A.C.E., and we regret that we cannot serve all families seeking this camp.
Camp G.R.A.C.E. FAQs
Additional information about Camp G.R.A.C.E. at the Northwest Cary YMCA
Please follow the signs to pick up and drop off your child. A staff member will greet your camper.
Rides In is 8:30 - 9 a.m., and Rides Out is 2 - 2:30 p.m.
To help keep drop-off and pick-up times safe and efficient, please follow the yellow line on the map for Rides In and the blue line for Rides Out. Staff members will be on-site to help direct traffic during these times. If your child requires a wheelchair-accessible entrance, please park in front of the church side of our facility, where a ramp is available.
For drop-offs or pick-ups outside of the scheduled Rides In/Out times, please call the camp phone at 984-359-9404, and a staff member will be happy to assist you!
We’re thrilled that this summer we’ll have Zumba Kids, Music Therapy and Dog Therapy happening every single week!
Tuesday
Music Therapy
Wednesday
Zumba Kids
Wacky Wednesday- Dress up in the theme for the week!
Thursday
Dog Therapy
Friday
Paper Plate Awards at 2 p.m.- Come cheer on your camper as they receive their very own personalized award, created just for them by their counselors.
Kona Ice- After the Paper Plate Awards and once your camper has been checked out, you’ll have the opportunity to take them to Kona Ice, which will be at camp from 2 – 3 p.m. Don’t miss this cool treat!
Campers swim every day at Camp G.R.A.C.E.! Please send your camper to camp wearing their swimsuit and ready for the pool.
Sunscreen/insect repellent (lotions and sprays) requires a Sunscreen/Insect Repellent Distribution Form to be completed if you wish for the Y to apply it to your child. This is part of the YMCA Medication Distribution & Sunscreen Application form.
We recommend that your child bring spray sunscreen and repellent for personal use if you prefer they self-apply. Please mark your child's first and last name on the bottles.
Campers are asked to bring a change of clothes, a swimsuit, a towel, lunch, two snacks and a refillable water bottle. Most campers pack everything in a backpack.
Camp G.R.A.C.E. Support
Individuals from the following organizations donated their time and expertise in the formation of Camp G.R.A.C.E.: The YMCA of the Triangle, A Small Miracle, LLC., the Autism Society of North Carolina, Community Partnerships, Maxim Home Health, and independently contracted behavioral psychologists. It is through the generosity and dedication of all of the above-mentioned organizations and donors to the YMCA’s Annual Campaign that we are able to provide Camp G.R.A.C.E.