When you read “summer camp” what comes to mind? Running outside, fireside songs, friendship? Us too. For Rhedina and her son, summer camp was all of that and more. Rhedina’s son, River, is ten and like most ten-year-olds, is starting to venture out independently. Being on the Autism Spectrum, River, can find new experiences and new people overwhelming.
“I was very nervous about him attending [camp] and seeing how he was after the first day, I knew I made the right decision by nominating him to attend. He was over the moon excited to tell me all about camp and how he made friends and his confidence overall has improved so much.”
Rhedina shared that upon walking into Vivo, the smiles and happiness of the camp counsellors put her and her son right at ease.
“My son really looked forward to seeing the camp counsellor each day as they were super energetic and always had a smile on their faces. He felt super safe and very welcome by them.”
River experienced a few firsts over the week as well – not to mention he made new friends and developed additional confidence that Rhedina had not expected from summer camp.
“My son has gained so much confidence that he is ready for school to start and looking forward to it!”
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New sports and activities were met with ease during River’s experience at Vivo’s summer camp as he felt safe and supported by his counsellors.
“They let him know he can try as much as he wants physically in sports and take a break whenever he needs. He was very well supported.”
As parents, we know how scary it can feel sending our kids out into the world to have new experiences.
River was one of the 33 recipients of Vivo’s Everybody Plays Send a Kid to Camp Contest. He experienced one free week of summer camp thanks to generous donations from the community – an experience he otherwise would not have had.
“This has been the best camp of all summer.”
Summer camp is more than keeping kids busy all day while we work. Summer camp is friendship, community, and confidence. Memories and experiences that we hold dearly for the rest of our lives – River we are so glad you got to make those memories here at Vivo!
At Vivo, we believe wellness belongs to everyone — and together, we can make it shine brighter. As a registered charity, Vivo helps remove financial barriers so every child, family, and neighbour can access the programs and spaces that support their wellbeing.
This Giving Season, your gift lights the way for others to connect, play, and grow stronger — turning individual sparks into a constellation of community care. Every donation helps illuminate new possibilities for those who need them most.
Join us in lighting up wellness for all. 💙
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