Camp G.R.A.C.E.
UPDATE: Due to extremely high demand, we are no longer accepting applications. We are proud to provide Camp G.R.A.C.E. and regret not being able to serve all families seeking this camp.
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.
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. 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.
Camp G.R.A.C.E. Details
Dates: Camp will run in one-week sessions, beginning June 23 and ending August 15. There will be no camp on Friday, July 4.
Location: Northwest Cary YMCA
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
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 red arrows for traffic flow and use the designated red rectangle areas for parking. 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, 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!
Rides In is from 8:30 - 9 a.m.
Rides Out is from 2 - 2:30 p.m.
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.
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!
Meet Amanda Grover
Amanda began her work with the Y in 2010, starting in After School and Summer Camp programs, but has been full-time since 2019. Today, she serves as the Senior Youth Director for Homeschool Hub and Camp G.R.A.C.E. Amanda holds an undergraduate degree from Meredith College, as well as a Master of Education degree in Child & Family Studies from UNC-Charlotte, with a focus on Social Emotional Learning and Special Education. When she is not at work, Amanda enjoys spending time with her husband and dog, and growing vegetables, herbs and flowers in her garden!
| Theme | Day | Date | Time | Prices | Ages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Building Blocks or Social Skills: Week 1 |
Mon - Fri
|
Jun 16 - Jun 20 | 8:30 am - 2:30 pm | M:$298 PP:$373 | 5 - 18 |
| Building Blooks or Social Skills: Week 2 |
Mon - Fri
|
Jun 23 - Jun 27 | 8:30 am - 2:30 pm | M:$298 PP:$373 | 5 - 18 |
| Building Blocks or Social Skills: Week 3 |
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
|
Jun 30 - Jul 3 | 8:30 am - 2:30 pm | M:$238 PP:$298 | 5 - 18 |
| Building Blocks or Social Skills: Week 4 |
Mon - Fri
|
Jul 7 - Jul 11 | 8:30 am - 2:30 pm | M:$298 PP:$373 | 5 - 18 |
| Building Blocks or Social Skills: Week 5 |
Mon - Fri
|
Jul 14 - Jul 18 | 8:30 am - 2:30 pm | M:$298 PP:$373 | 5 - 18 |
| Building Blocks or Social Skills: Week 6 |
Mon - Fri
|
Jul 21 - Jul 25 | 8:30 am - 2:30 pm | M:$298 PP:$373 | 5 - 18 |
| Building Blocks or Social Skills: Week 7 |
Mon - Fri
|
Jul 28 - Aug 1 | 8:30 am - 2:30 pm | M:$298 PP:$373 | 5 - 18 |
| Building Blocks or Social Skills: Week 8 |
Mon - Fri
|
Aug 4 - Aug 8 | 8:30 am - 2:30 pm | M:$298 PP:$373 | 5 - 18 |
| Building Blocks or Social Skills: Week 9 |
Mon - Fri
|
Aug 11 - Aug 15 | 8:30 am - 2:30 pm | M:$298 PP:$373 | 5 - 18 |