Camp G.R.A.C.E.

We are already planning for the summer and we can’t wait to see your children in 2024! Returning families will be emailed a camp application on Jan. 1. The application will be available to new families and on our website on March 1.

UPDATE: Due to extremely high demand and limited space availability, registration is very limited for Camp G.R.A.C.E. 2024, and may fill prior to March 1. Most weeks have fewer than 3-5 spaces remaining. Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, and we anticipate reaching our full capacity within the first few days of March. We are proud to provide Camp G.R.A.C.E. and regret not being able to serve all families seeking this camp. Learn more.

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 session of Camp G.R.A.C.E. operates for one week, with each session focusing on building specific skills incorporating therapeutic ideas from many disciplines.

We offer two different sessions: Social Skills and Building Blocks. Social Skills Sessions are designed for children that 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 get to enjoy water activities and sensory integration activities, as well as character and social skills development time.

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.

This camp is held at Apex Elementary School and ran by the Kraft Family YMCA. Check out our F.A.Q. page.

At Camp G.R.A.C.E. we are fortunate to have the financial support of many friends in our community that allow us to make camp possible for any or child who needs it regardless of the family or caregiver’s ability to pay. We also understand that having a child with special needs provides some unique financial challenges to families and we want to be able to support you in any way possible. That being said, if there is any reason you feel that you could benefit from financial assistance for Camp G.R.A.C.E. please fill out our financial assistance application so we can best support you and your family this summer.

REGISTRATION

Camp G.R.A.C.E. is an application-based program. 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. Returning families will be emailed a camp application on Jan. 1. The application will be available to new families and on our website on March 1.

APPLICATION

For questions, please contact Bernard Bronner.