So, long time no see. This isn't actually a catch-up post but I just wanted everyone out there to know how amazing Dean is. Beginning last year he developed and implemented a special needs week for the phoenix zoo's annual summer camp. Each week of camp is as inclusive as possible, but some kiddos with mobility or sensory impairments need specialized adaptations. So, even though the Zoo had never done a camp like this before Dean took the initiative to put one together. It was very successful last year and they were able to put it on again this year. One really cool part is that Dean helped write a grant for the camp so that campers who attended during this week didn't have to pay the regular camp fee of $275. In fact, they were able to attend for free! Dean put in a lot of extra time and effort to make this camp happen. Some of the campers this year had never been to the Zoo before. A family trip to the Zoo can be difficult for children with special needs-it's expensive for families to get into the Zoo, especially when families may only stay for a short time as a result of their child's schedule/needs. Additionally, getting around the Zoo can be difficult and seeing exhibits in a large crowd can be challenging (or impossible in the case of visually impaired or blind children). Dean made a conscious effort to change those "norms" and to afford children who are sometimes socially isolated a chance to attend a summer camp just like thousands of more typical kids do every year. I am so proud of him. Here's a link to a brief blog post about this year's camp, written by the mother of a camper named Cicily. Check it out!
