Rocco Aiello (far right), director of Camp Inspire, accepts a $1,500 check from representatives of The Tiki Bar in Solomons.
Solomons, MD – A summer camp that aims to enrich the lives of autistic youth reaped the benefits of fancy event held by one of Southern Maryland’s iconic bars. The Tiki Bar of Solomons held its Seventh annual Little Black Dress Party and Benefit July 23. The catered event featured a live DJ.
On Sept. 9, representatives from the Tiki Bar presented a $1,500 check to Rocco Aiello, director of Camp Inspire, a four week summer program held in St. Mary’s County. Aiello is the St. Mary’s County Public Schools Department of Special Education’s coordinator for Adapted Physical Education and Corollary Sports. He told The BayNet he started the camp nine years ago to establish “social interaction and inclusion” among autistic youth in the area. According to Aiello, it is now the largest summer for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Maryland.
On average, the program has 40 campers—ranging in age from 4 to 21—20 “peers” supervising the various activities. The camp is held every summer at a St. Mary’s County elementary school.
According to the St. Mary’s County Government web site, the program is intended to develop an ASD child’s strengths and hidden abilities. The camp offers a very unique program of recreation activities, academic and social development. Activities may include, adapted PE, occupational Therapy, Art therapy, Social Stories, field trips and much more.
“The goal is to go global,” said Aiello.
Click to view a video about Camp Inspire.
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com