New Mexico's Summer Camp for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Click the link above, then select Center for Development & Disability under the Secondary Program/Fund drop down.
Camper, Peer, and CIT applications Are now Available!
OUR MISSION IS TO....
- Provide a specialized summer camp experience for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and their peers.
- Provide an opportunity for students, community volunteers, and professionals to gain experience working with those diagnosed with ASD.
- Provide respite for parents and caregivers of children with ASD.
About Camp Rising Sun
Camp Rising Sun was founded in 2006 by a group of parents and professionals who wished for a summer camp experience for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the state of New Mexico. In 2009, Camp Rising Sun became a part of The Autism Programs at the University of New Mexico Center for Development and Disability. The programs of Camp Rising Sun are accredited by the American Camping Association (ACA).
Camp Location
Camp will be held at the established Manzano Mountain Retreat in the Manzano Mountains southeast of Albuquerque, New Mexico. The site is accredited by ACA. It will take approximately an hour and a half to reach the site from Albuquerque. For additional site information, go to www.manzanoretreat.com.
The Campers
Camp sessions are designed specifically for children ages 8-17 years old. Camp Rising Sun provides an inclusive summer camp environment that includes children with an autism spectrum disorder and their same-age peer campers. Children sleep in male or female dormitories and will be supervised by adults at all times.
Activities
Camp activities may include swimming, hiking, sports and games, arts & crafts, theater, photography and video, geo-caching, music, campouts, nature activities, campfires, low and high ropes and challenge course, martial arts, campfire and evening programs, and a variety of other activities. The camp also contracts with additional trained specialists to provide specialized programs, which may include: horseback riding, kayaking in the pool, and other creative specialized programs.
Camper/Staff Ratio
Determination of camp/counselor ratio is dependent upon each child's needs. One to one staffing is available for those campers who need more supervision.
Staff & Volunteers
Volunteers are university students, community volunteers, and professionals from the community desiring additional experience working with children on the autism spectrum. All undergo a rigorous screening process; including reference checks, interview, and criminal background checks. Most positions are volunteer assignments and may provide a small stipend.
2012 Camp Rising Sun Session Dates:
Teen Camp- Monday, June 25- Friday, June 29, 2012
Kid Camp- Sunday, July 29- Thursday, August 2, 2012
