Jacksonville, Fla. – Bishop Felipe Estévez will bless Camp I Am Special’s new playground, Monday, May 20, at 10 a.m. at Camp I Am Special, 445 Marywood Drive, Saint Johns.

The Chartrand Family Camp I Am Special playground features innovative equipment to support campers’ differences and abilities. The playground is a main attraction for Camp I Am Special; it is open and staffed 24 hours a day. Since many campers’ circadian rhythm is off during camp, it is not uncommon for campers to use the playground facilities during any and all hours of the day and night to calm them and expend their energy in a healthy way.

The Chartrand Family playground is part of a yearlong campaign, designed with equipment that is inclusive and customized to all abilities; it is something the campers are not likely to come across in any other part of their lives. Funded by the Chartrand family and Delores Barr Weaver, the planning for the project began in the summer 2018. The 7,500 square-foot playground’s construction began in March 2019 and is set to be completed this May.

The playground will feature equipment made for children of all abilities, including a multiple wheelchair-accessible rocker, multiperson swings and an intergenerational swing that allows children and adults or children of varying ages to develop connections.

“Exploring and enjoying the playground makes an immeasurable impact on the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of children and adults with intellectual and developmental differences.,” said Lauren Weedon Hopkins, director of Catholic Charities Jacksonville. “We’re incredibly thankful for the support from the Chartrand Family and Delores Barr Weaver; they have made this dream possible.

For more information, contact Nicola Barnack at (904) 899-5505 or email nbarnack@ccbjax.org.

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About Camp I Am Special

Camp I Am Special offers residential and day summer camp experiences and Super Saturday respite for children, teenagers and adults with intellectual and developmental differences. Every Camper is matched 1:1 with a volunteer Buddy to be a constant friend and caregiver. Our daily activities enable our Campers to enjoy all of the fun of a traditional summer camp while also providing opportunities to grow in social skills, teamwork, and cooperative play, guided by Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) strategies.

Date: April 26, 2019
Contact: Kathleen Bagg
(904) 262-3200, ext. 100/office
(904) 434-3909/cell