By Cait Crudden
In the heart of Smithtown lies a summer sanctuary unlike any other. As April unfolds and the world commemorates Autism Awareness Month, the Town of Smithtown’s Camp SMILE (Smithtown Motivating Individuals thru Leisure and Entertainment) along with the Adult Socialization Program for Individuals Living with Disabilities emerges as shining examples of compassion, understanding, and inclusivity for individuals living with neurodiversity.
Since its inception last summer, the Adaptive Sports and Socialization Summer Program for Children and Adults, which was wildly successful, has now been made into two separate programs for the upcoming season called Camp SMILE and the Adult Socialization Program.
“I want to properly acknowledge a truly incredible team that is responsible for this wonderful addition to our Recreational programming,” said Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R-Kings Park). “Councilwoman Lisa Inzerillo (R-Kings Park), Recreation Director; Tom McCaffrey, his hardworking and thoughtful team members; Brandon Modrov and Tara Foglia along with the invaluable contributions of the Disability Advisory Board have made this dream a reality. No child should miss out on the enriching summer camp experience. These two programs champion accessibility, and underscore Smithtown’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment where every resident can thrive and participate fully in community life”.
Camp SMILE will be offered throughout the summer season in three two-week sessions from 9:00a.m. to 12:00p.m., Monday through Friday at a local school. Campers will have the opportunity to participate in arts in crafts, field and playground time, gymnasium games, and other entertainment scheduled throughout each week.
The Adult Socialization Program will be offered three to four nights per week and will include events in and around the community, such as bowling, dinners, socials, trips, arts and crafts, and special events. The events will change seasonally with the addition of nights at the pool in the summer at Smithtown Landing Country Club. Staff members for these programs are professionals in the field with years of experience working with children and adults with developmental disabilities.
“As we kick off Autism Awareness Month, we are so proud to introduce these incredible recreation programs that celebrate the diverse talents and abilities of all individuals,” stated Councilwoman Inzerillo, liaison to the Disability Advisory Board. “By fostering inclusivity and providing meaningful opportunities for participation, we aim to create a community where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.”
It is the hope that during the summer months Camp SMILE and the Adult Socialization Program buzzes with the sounds of laughter, new friendships, and discovery as they can engage in a variety of activities designed to promote social interaction, sensory exploration, and skill development.
These programs will touch the lives of countless families and individuals affected by autism, it is a legacy of love and acceptance. The schedule and location details will be available in the upcoming 2024 Summer Recreation Guide, which will be mailed to residents and will also be available online.
Tom McCaffrey, the Director of Recreation states “With the help from our community members as well as the disability Advisory Board it is our hope that we can expand the scope of neurodiverse community programming. Together we can do anything”.
