Camp SOAR

Presented by

June 13-17

@

Levine Jewish Community Center

5007 Providence Rd

Charlotte, NC 28226

Session I (Ages 26+)- June 13, 14, 17

Session II (Ages 10-25)-June 15, 16, 17

Another record turn-out is expected for the 2011 Camp SOAR (Special Olympics Athletic Retreat), held at the Levine JCC by Special Olympics Mecklenburg County. More than 300 volunteers will provide a week of sports and enrichment for more than 300 athletes at no cost.

What is Camp SOAR?

Camp SOAR is an exciting week that encourages current Special Olympics athletes to try new sports and recruit new athletes to participate in Special Olympics. More than 300 athletes with an equal number of volunteers will be on hand for this exciting week of activities.

Why Camp SOAR?

Camp SOAR is open to Special Olympics athletes and potential athletes in Mecklenburg County, fulfilling a need for a summer day camp available to individuals with intellectual disabilities who want and deserve the same opportunity as others to attend summer camp. The need for Camp SOAR is evidenced by its consistent annual growth during its ten-year existence. Camp SOAR provides sports training and enrichment activities, that keep athletes interested in physical fitness outside their regular sports training and competition. Having intellectual disabilities, Special Olympics athletes need to stay engaged in regular physical activity even more than the general population as they are at greater risk for obesity and related serious health problems. Camp SOAR is not just about sports, but provides necessary experiences of acceptance, and participation in summer camp social activities enjoyed by people among the general population who attend traditional summer camps. SOAR campers benefit from five days of physical activity, exposure to new sports and the fun and fellowship of traditional day camp activities such as arts & crafts, dances, a talent show, and access to a computer lab. All of these experiences will contribute to improved self-esteem and socialization which foster independence, and impact performance in school, the workplace and community.

While other organizations offer summer camps, availability for campers with intellectual disabilities is limited and usually involves fees. Camp SOAR is free to all participants thanks to our generous sponsors!