"We couldn't be more excited about and appreciative of the Canton Newcomers & Neighbor’s generous decision to donate these funds to Camp A.B.L.E.,” said Jennifer Provenzano, Recreation Coordinator. “Providing a traditional summer camp experience with adaptions that keep activities fun and inclusive despite the wide range of disabilities that often challenge our campers isn't always easy, but it is always worth it for us. The ways that we see our participants try new things, develop skills, and make friendships and memories is incredibly rewarding.”
This year the Canton Newcomers & Neighbors selected Camp A.B.L.E. to be the recipient of their philanthropic efforts, which included funds raised from their popular Mom-2-Mom Sale.
“Camp A.B.L.E. is a perfect match to our organization’s funding priority this year,” said Betty Nolan, Vice President and Director of Community Relations for the Canton Newcomers & Neighbors. “We have a tender heart for children with special needs. We want campers to be able to focus on fun rather than disabilities. We are very pleased to provide funds for Camp A.B.L.E.’s wish list of items including toys that will help make camp days more fun for campers and staff members.”
Supplies that will be purchased with these funds for Camp A.B.L.E. include specialty items like weighted blankets, sensory brushes and cushions, noise canceling headphones, and more, which can assist camp staff by providing tools and resources that help some children better cope with, and adjust to the big transitions that often accompany an exciting day at camp.
“We're so grateful for organizations like the Newcomers who choose to step up and offer their help to make the sun shine a little brighter for the kids and staff all summer at Camp A.B.L.E.,” stated Provenzano. “Specialty supplies don't often make it into our general operating budget...we're grateful for donations in any amount that help us better serve these children and their families.”
Camp A.B.L.E., which stands for Achieve, Believe, Learn and Experience, is one of several activities and services offered by Canton Township’s Therapeutic Recreation program. Therapeutic Recreation offers year-round program opportunities, socialization and support for individuals with disabilities of all ages residing in Western Wayne County. Camp A.B.L.E. is funded in part by a Western Wayne County Therapeutic Recreation Grant. However, the need for specialized supplies, transportation and other important programming assistance remains. Donations to the Camp A.B.L.E. fund can be made online at www.cantonfoundation.org or by writing a check to the Canton Community Foundation and earmarking those dollars in the memo line with “Camp A.B.L.E. Fund.”
Scholarships are also available for those interested in attending Camp A.B.L.E. through the Marion and Jerry Rozum Family Fund, which was established to organize support from individuals and business owners within the community. Realizing that summer camps can make a difference for families with special needs, Marion Rozum established this Donor Advised Fund at the Canton Community Foundation for children with disabilities or those with life threatening illnesses. Participants of Camp A.B.L.E. are encouraged to apply annually for these available funds by visiting cantonfun.org.
Established in 1971, the Canton Newcomers & Neighbors Club is an all-volunteer women’s social club serving new and existing Canton, Michigan area women who like to be connected to others and the community. To learn more about the Canton Newcomers & Neighbors, visit http://www.cantonnewcomersandneighbors.org
To learn more about the Canton Leisure Services Therapeutic Recreation Program, including Camp A.B.L.E., visit www.cantonfun.org.