Recreation and Summer Programs
Recreational Activities: Programs that provide opportunities for people of all ages to participate in the specific recreational activity, game or sport of their choice.
To locate Recreational Activities in your community, click here to search the Pathfinder database. On the database search page, select your county and "Recreational Activities" then click on "Search."
2008 Middle Tennessee Summer Camps and Programs
There are many summer opportunities in communities across Tennessee for children with all abilities including Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, YMCA Summer Programs, Boys & Girls Club and church sponsored camps and programs. The following camp information is geared toward specialty or disability programs available.
The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center co-hosts several summer camps. For information on these camps, which serve students with autism, developmental disabilities and Down Syndrome, and youth and young adults with Williams syndrome, visit their website or contact the Camps & Arts Coordinator at 615-322-8147.
Metro Social Services (MSS) offers financial assistance to those Davidson County Parents and Relative Caregivers who wish to send their children to camp this summer. In order to receive this assistance, the family must meet certain eligibility criteria. The $500 stipends will be given on a first-come, first-served basis and all camps must be chosen and paid for by June 20th even if the camp session does not start until later in the summer. For more information, contact contact Danielle Mezera, Coordinator of Children and Youth services directly at 880-2398.
The following information is excerpted from the Junior League Family Resource Center's online Camp Directory . For more information on Middle Tennessee summer programs for children with chronic illnesses and disabilities, visit Junior League Family Resource Center's online Camp Directory or contact the Center at 800-288-0391. The Center and its website also have information on national camps serving children with some specific chronic conditions.
Ables Recreation Program
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Director: |
Nancy Scott |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
615-220-9161 |
Eligibility
Young people ages 4 and up with special needs.
Services
Ables Recreation provides recreation year round for children with disabilities between the ages of 4 - 24 years. There is a one-week Summer Day Camp program, and year-round activities that encourage physical development, social growth and self-confidence in a safe, supportive environment. Ables Recreation holds a day camp during the summer, bowling in the winter, and softball in the spring and fall.
Application and Cost Information
Camp Program $10
Angel Heart Farm
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Director: |
Tracy Kujawa |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
(615) 566-4976 |
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Website: |
Eligibility
For children with chronic and life threatening illnesses and their families.
Services
Angel Heart Farm, Inc. is a Middle Tennessee non-profit therapeutic program that uses equine assisted therapy for children who have chronic and life threatening illnesses and their families. Children and their families are welcome to visit the farm at their convenience. Children may enjoy an assisted ride on the horse or pony best suited to their abilities, or simply groom or feed and pet the horses.
Application and Cost Information
Please call office for details of scheduling: 615-566-4976.
There is no cost to families.
Bill Rice Ranch
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Director: |
Bill Rice, III |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
(615) 893-2767 |
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Toll-Free: |
(800) 253-RICE |
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E-mail: |
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Website: |
Eligibility
Hearing impaired children and youth ages 9-19.
Services
A Christian oriented summer camp for children with hearing impairment age 8-19 and their families. There will be trained deaf counselor staff along with evangelists Ronnie Rice and Allen Snare. Exciting activity programs such as trail rides, cookouts, cowboys, hikes, and putt-putt. Various camps run from June through August. For specific camp types and dates visit www.billriceranch.org
2008 Summer Schedule:
Deaf Week 1 June 8-13
Deaf Week 2 June 15-20
Deaf Week 3 June 22-27
Deaf Week 4 July 6-11
Deaf Week 5 July 13-18
Deaf Week 6 July 27-Aug. 1
Week for the Family July 1-5
Deaf Family Camp Sign Language School July 22-26
Sign Language School July 20-24, 2008
Sign Language School: This course requires concentration and study. You must be at least 15 years of age to attend. Everyone is required to attend classes. We are sorry, but we cannot accommodate children. Cost is $175 per person which includes a $30 registration fee, tuition, workbook, lodging and meals. Teens will stay in cabins, and adults will stay in standard rooms. Deluxe rooms are available for a total camp cost of $300 per person (Double occupancy).
Deaf Family Week: Deaf people have wonderful time at the Bill Rice Ranch. They may swim, ride horses, play ball, play putt-putt golf, hike or relax on the large beautiful Ranch. Enjoy morning Bible classes taught with total communication. You will also enjoy simple gospel services each morning and evening. A nursery and classes will be provided for children ages 0-7.
Deaf Camp: Each week provides trained deaf counseling staff, deaf only cabins, exciting activity program, cookout and trail ride opportunities, swim times, services and classes taught each day by Ronnie Rice, Allen Snare and other experienced teachers, and also an opportunity to be a part of a hearing teen service with experienced interpreters.
Application and Cost Information
In order to reserve a place on the Ranch, write or phone the registrar for registration cards and information: Bill Rice Ranch, 627 Bill Rice Ranch Road, Murfreesboro, TN 37128.
Deaf ages 9-19 attend one week free.
Transportation
Passengers may be met at the Nashville airport or Nashville bus station ($5 per person per trip). Bus passengers will be met at Murfreesboro bus station at no charge. Send your travel schedule if you wish to be met.
Camp for Broken Hearts
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Address: |
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Phone: |
(615)563-4089 |
Services
Camp for Broken Hearts is designed to help the families who are struggling. It will be a week where you won't have to be concerned about your child's behavior. If the child acts out, they will be removed by our trained staff. You will be able to carry on with whatever activity is in progress. Families will be able to relax and have fun. There will be lots of support for everyone.
Application and Cost Information
$1000.pp for a family of 2. $200.00 per additional person for the week
This includes: all food, lodging, and activities at camp.
You will need to bring your own bedding and bathroom essentials.
The deposit needs to be in by May 1, 2008 and the remaining balance will need to be in by July 1, 2008.
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Director: |
Dawn Hickman |
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Phone: |
931-268-0239 |
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Website: |
Services
A one-week overnight camp for children and adults with mental and physical disabilities. Accessible campground is located on
2008 Dates:
Orientation: May 27-29
Week 1: June 1-6
Week 2: June 8-13
Week 3: June 29-July 4
Week 4: July 6-11
Week 5: July 13-18
Week 6: July 20-25
Week 7: July 27-Aug. 1
The camp sessions will be on a 'First Come, First Served Basis.' All
Application and Cost Information
The cost is $250/week + an additional $25.00 non-refundable application fee. Call 865-558-8271 between 12:30pm and 4:00pm EDT for reservation inquiries.
Camp Possible
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Director: |
Christy Wolfe-Mazeres |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
615.585.6539 |
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Website: |
Eligibility
The camp will initially focus on enrichment services on children and adults ages 3-22 who have moderate to severe disabilities. For more information please call 615-585-6539.
Services
This will be a summer long enrichment day camp for people with special needs, starting
2007 Tentative Weekly Themes
June 4-8: Nature and Gardening
June 11-15: Far Off Places
June 18-22: Weather Week/Seasons
June 25-29: The Wild
July 2-6 (Off the 4th): Colors
July 9-13: Music
July 16-20: Outer Space
July 23-26: Summer Fun
Application and Cost Information
$35 Registration
$150 per week
We work with other providers to cover costs.
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Director: |
Vicky Pitner |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
615-790-5719 |
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Fax: |
615-790-4732 |
Eligibility
Children and young adults, ages 6-23, are eligible to attend. They must also be a student in a
Services
Please call the camp for 2007 information.
Application and Cost Information
An assessment for new campers must be completed before registration is permitted. Please call Vicky Pitner for an appointment at 615-790-5719, ext. 21.
The cost is $45 per week.
Challenger Baseball
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Director: |
Russ Mason |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
(615) 383-0296 |
Eligibility
Boys and girls ages 5 through 18 with mental and physical disabilities.
Services
Challenger Baseball is a division of Little League Baseball for children ages 5 -18 with mental and physical disabilities. Different abilities are accommodated in a non competitive, recreational format. Safety balls, helmets and other appropriate equipment will be provided. Players may be assisted by adult volunteers.
Games are on Saturday mornings from April 12 through mid-June at
Application and Cost Information
Contact Russ Mason at 383-0296 or 343-7433 to make sign up arrangements. Sign up will continue even after the season starts. It's never too late to sign up.
Cost is $50 per player (the league provides uniforms, equipment, and secondary insurance coverage for all teams, limited financial assistance is available.
Community Cares about Kids
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Director: |
Leslie Ann Daniels |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
(615) 227-9771 |
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E-mail: |
Services
This non-profit organization provides summer creative arts programs for children with disabilities. Financial assistance is available on a case by case basis.
Please call for details.
Currey Ingram Summer Program
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Director: |
Sandy Pedersen |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
615-507-3242 |
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Website: |
Eligibility
Students entering grades Kindergarten through eleven.
Services
Students and parents may select from a variety of offerings to tailor the summer program to meet their own unique needs in athletic, academic, and technology interests.
Students may select from a variety of academic and enrichments courses. The
academic classes are designed to enable
students to retain skills developed during
the school year and to continue to
progress in specific academic areas. Multisensory instruction, up-to-date curricula, and a challenging yet nurturing environment foster student growth. Students
may select one or two morning courses.
There is a mandatory individual assessment prior to beginning these classes for students who are new to Currey Ingram. Please contact school or visit their website for brochure with the complete course listings.
Times and costs vary depending on the classes chosen
Easter Seals Camp
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Director: |
Leslie Sohl |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
615.444.2829 |
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Fax: |
615.444.8576 |
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E-mail: |
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Website: |
Eligibility
Criteria for the Respite Program:
1. Must be able to interact in a group setting with a ratio of one staff to two campers.
2. Must be able to sleep through the night
3. Cannot be medically fragile
4. Cannot be a danger to himself/herself or others
5. Must be able to communicate basic needs
Services
A one-week overnight camp for children and adults with various types of disabilities. Campers are grouped according to age and disability. Easter Seals Camp is located in
May 27-June 1 Session #1—Adults with Developmental Disabilities: Appropriate for adults age 18 and up who have a developmental delay or cognitive disability; this includes those who may also have a physical disability or condition
June 3-8 Session #2—Autism Week: Appropriate for children and adults with autism or other spectrum disorders. Ratio is a 1:1 camper to counselor.
June 10-15 Session #3—Adults with Physical Disabilities: Appropriate for adults age 18 and up who have a physical disability, but no significant developmental delay.
June 17-22 Session #4—Performing Arts Camp: Appropriate for all ages and abilities. This week focuses on the art of singing, dancing and video production: also includes regular camp activities. Campers must be able to follow directions and work within a group of campers.
June 24-29 CAMP CLOSED
July 1-6 Session #5—Children with Physical Disabilities: Appropriate for children ages 6-17 who have a physical disability, but no significant developmental delay. This session includes children with Traumatic Brain Injuries.
July 8-13 Session #6—Children with Developmental Disabilities: Appropriate for children 6-17 who have a cognitive disability or developmental delay; this includes those who may also have a physical disability.
July 15-20 Session #7—Traumatic Brain Injury: Appropriate for adults ages 18 and up who have a traumatic brain injury.
July 22-27 Session #8—Adults with Developmental Disabilities: Appropriate for adults age 18 and up who have a developmental delay or cognitive disability; this includes those who may also have a physical disability or condition.
SUMMER CAMP:
Easter Seals Camp is a special opportunity for disabled and non-disabled children and adults to participate in a residential camp. Each session of camp is grouped by age and disability category. The camp is located in
RESPITE CARE:
In addition, the Respite Program at Easter Seals Camp provides families/caregivers the opportunity to relax, spend time with other friends and family, and get much needed rest. Families/caregivers can rest assured that program participants are in caring and capable hands. For the respite program participant, the weekend is a fun, relaxing time meeting new friends and rekindling old friendships. Participants have the opportunity to be involved in traditional camp activities, as well as special programs. Respite care is scheduled through the year.
Application and Cost Information
For more information or an application form contact Easter Seals Camp at the phone number or email given.
Cost is $425. Financial assistance is available.
Empower Me Day Camp
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Director: |
Michelle J. Hill |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
615.453.0005 |
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Fax: |
615.444.7988 |
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E-mail: |
Eligibility
For children ages 5-21 with mild to moderate physical or developmental disabilities such as mental retardation, Down Syndrome, ADD, learning disabilities, speech or language disabilities, blindness, deafness, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy.
Services
2007 Dates and Themes:
June 11-15 (Tropical Week)
June 18-22 (Sports Week)
June 25-29 (Sensory Week)
July 9-13 (Zoo Week)
July 16-20 (Talent Week)
July 23-27 (Farm Week)
Empower Me Day Camp is for children with mild to moderate disabilities. It offers a variety of activities such as sports, music and drama, arts and crafts, woodworking and nature and outdoor adventures. Camp hours are Monday - Friday,
There will be 24 total camper slots available each week. 4 of the 24 slots will be available for children with specialized needs.
The camp is located at:
James E. Ward Agricultural and Community Center
945 Baddour Parkway
Lebanon, TN 37087
Application and Cost Information
Please call the camp for an application or information. They anticipate filling up fast, so send your completed application form in early.
The cost is $200.00 per week and a child can attend any or all of the weeks offered. The early and late arrival programs from
Learning Lab
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Director: |
Christine Piccillo |
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Address: |
Two |
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Phone: |
(615) 377-2929 |
Services
The Learning Lab provides a positive, encouraging environment where students can improve their educational skills and feelings about themselves. Professional educators work with each person in a creative, enjoyable, and individualized program. Consulting, testing, and tutoring services are available. In addition, the Learning Lab offers a College-Bound study program for students in grades 7-12, and a special program for children with ADD and/or Learning Disabilities.
Application and Cost Information
Ask for Pat Elkins. Must bring past school records and any prior testing reports. Call for an appointment.
Payment is expected at the time of service. Tests vary in price.
Funding
Funding is provided by program generated revenues.
Waiting List
Waiting list is 1-2 weeks for testing.
Geographical Area
Primarily Williamson and Southern
Oak Hill Day Camp
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Director: |
Letitia Green |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
(615) 298-9527 |
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E-mail: |
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Website: |
Eligibility
Children ages 4 through those going into 6th grade are served. Also served are children with slight autism as well as minor physical & mental handicaps.
Services
Oak Hill Day Camp is a place where children can go to be comforted and challenged. The camp is conveniently located on 54 acres at First Presbyterian Church, on the corner of
Dates for Summer camp 2007:
Little Camp (4 years old - rising Kindergarten)
Session 1 – June 4-15 (2 weeks)
Session 2 – June 18-29 (2 weeks)
Session 3 – July 2-6 (4 days)
Session 4 – July 9-13 (1 week)
Session 5 – July 16-27 (2 weeks)
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Oak Hill Day Camp
(rising 1st grade - rising 6th grade)
Session 1 – June 4-15 (2 weeks)
Session 2 – June 18-29 (2 weeks)
Session 3 – July 2-6 (4 days)
Session 4 – July 9-13 (1 week)
Session 5 – July 16-27 (2 weeks)
Application and Cost Information
Applications are mailed out.
Little Camp (9:00am – 1:15pm) (4 years old – rising Kindergarten)
$340 for 2 week sessions
$170 for 1 week sessions
$140 for 4 day sessions
Oak Hill Day Camp (9:00am – 3:00pm)
(Rising 1st grade – Rising 6th grade)
$390 for 2 week sessions
$195 for 1 week sessions
$160 for 4 day sessions
Counselors will be available to provide early morning supervision. Drop-off for campers will be from
Waiting List
Service capacity is 225 children. There is a waiting list.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
615.293.4873 |
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Fax: |
(615)382-5616 |
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E-mail: |
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Website: |
Eligibility
A Non-profit program designed for the mentally, physically & emotionally disabled persons, using the therapeutic wonders of a horse
Services
Paradise Ranch, located in
The program has expanded to include theropeutic horseback riding and hippotherapy for both adult and children under the supervison of licensed occupational and physical therapist.
In 2003, an indoor arena was built so that classes could be provided, regardless of the weather or time of day. In addition a horse drawn buggy was added for those who couldn't ride a horse.
A mount leader and two side walkers is required for each client. Volunteers are always welcome to join the Paradise Ranch staff to make the horseback riding experience relaxing for the clients
Six horses are used for each one hour class, but ten horses are maintained for the camp program to meet the varying client needs.
Paradise Ranch is located approximately 30 miles above
Each session includes a one hour riding class each week for the clent on either Tuesday or Thursday evening
Spring Sessions
Tuesday: March 13 - April 17
Thursday: March 15 - April 19
Summer Sessions
Tuesday: May 8 - June 12
Thursday: May 10 - June 14
Fall Sessions
Tuesday: September 4 - October 9
Thursday: September 6 - October 11
2006 Fall Session
Tuesday: September 5-October 24
Thursday: September 7-October 26
Saddle-Up
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Director: |
Peggy Plunkett |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
(615) 794-1150 ext1 |
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E-mail: |
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Website: |
Eligibility
Children age 4-18 are eligible for the program. Children with any disability, physical or mental, are accepted. Children are asked to provide their own riding helmet, if possible.
Services
The North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) and Saddle Up are non-profit, equestrian organizations dedicated to serving children with disabilities. There are no limitations as to disability providing the child passes a medical screening.
Program hours are Monday - Friday
Application and Cost Information
The cost is $15 per riding lesson.
Affiliation
Saddle Up is a Chapter of NARHA (North American Riding for the Handicapped Association)
Social Skills Training for Children and Youth
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Address: |
304B |
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Phone: |
615.867.4707 |
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E-mail: |
Services
Teaches joining groups, making friends, carrying on a conversation, anger management, coping with teasing, problem solving, and monitoring body language.
Application and Cost Information
Please call for times and costs.
Southern STARRS, Inc.
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Director: |
Saranne Winfield, MSP |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
615-453-2592 |
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Fax: |
615-453-2592 |
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E-mail: |
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Website: |
Eligibility
Minimum age of 3 years old - no maximum. Program serves children and adults diagnosed with a physical or mental disability, or who is a victim of life-altering/dibilitating injury or trauma, including terminal illnesses and victims of child abuse who have been removed from their home and placed in foster care.
Application and Cost Information
Application can be downloaded from website or will be mailed on request, but is required.
There is no cost associated with this camp and no application fee.
The program currently provides therapeutic horseback riding and related activities and is in the process of expanding to provide pet assisted activities. The program runs year 'round.
Waiting List
None at this time.
Special Olympics
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Director: |
Cathy Rader |
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Address: |
Metro Board of Parks & Rec/Disabilities, Centennial Parks Office |
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Phone: |
(615) 883-1730 |
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Fax: |
(615) 889-3653 |
Eligibility
Children and adults with disabilities.
Services
There are many events that take place. They tend to be from
Application and Cost Information
Please call contact numbers for additional information. There is a two year waiting list, so call as soon as possible to get your name on the list.
Waiting List
A two year waiting list.
Summer Enrichment Camp
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Director: |
Dr. Carla Kelley |
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Address: |
115 Stewarts Ferry Pike |
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E-mail: |
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Website: |
Eligibility
Legally blind students who are enrolled in any K-12 school program in
Services
Adaptive technology, daily living skills and recreational skills. One or two week programs in June depending on student's needs and age
Application and Cost Information
Contact Dr. Charla Kelley at above address
Free
Waiting List
Not at this time
Geographical Area
East, Middle, or West Tennessee
TRIAD Social Skills Summer Camp
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Director: |
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Phone: |
(615) 322-8529 x 3 |
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Website: |
http://kc.vanderbilt.edu/kennedy/triad/services_skillscamp.html |
Services
The TRIAD Social Skills Summer Camp is an intensive social skills program designed for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders. Camp sessions are 1 week for individuals ages 6-11 and 3 weeks for individuals age 12-21. TRIAD provides a fun, structured camp environment in which all children can learn and have successful interactions with their peers. Campers must have language and reading skills. Children with typical development between the ages of 6 and 13 are invited to take part as peer models. The camp takes place at University School of Nashville.
Eligibility: Between ages 12-21 who have language and reading skills
Dates: June 9 - 27, 2008
Application Deadline: First-come/first serve.
Vanderbilt Kennedy Center Music Camp
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Contact: |
Gretchen Herbert |
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Address: |
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Phone: |
615.322.8147 |
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Website: |
The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center is hosting its third annual music camp for young adults (ages 16+) with developmental disabilities. It is a weeklong residential camp held on the Vanderbilt campus in conjunction with the Blair School of Music. Campers celebrate music by participating in a songwriting workshop, recording session, songwriter's night and a live performance on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry. Campers are invited to take part in research activities. The camp also focuses on social skills and independence.
Music Camp provides persons with developmental disabilities a unique opportunity to focus on what they love and do well—music! Camp goals include: