Special needs students enjoy Camp Inclusion

ELLICOTT CITY, Md. - Students enjoy fun activities at Camp Inclusion. More than 30 students in the summer program enjoy arts & crafts, sports and academic work.

The goal is to build a connection for students with special needs.

"Friendships, any sort of friendships that they can form with any of the camp counselors, volunteers or other students is a big accomplishment," said A.J. Rosenthal, Head Counselor and Co-founder of Camp Inclusion.

Camp Inclusion is a three week summer program for students with special needs ages 12 to 21 years old.  The camp was founded in 2009 for alternative learning students at Glenelg High School in Howard County.

The program has steadily grown with students from across the region participating.  College and High School volunteers work with the campers.  Students enjoy the program.

"It's fun. It's important to come to Camp Inclusion.  I like it," said Clara Schold, Camp Inclusion Camper.

Camp Counselors hope to grow the program and offer it statewide to students next year.