Programs
Summer Camp
F.A.C.T. has just completed it's 12th season of summer camp! We are proud to offer a unique and enriching summer day camp experience for children and teens with autism.
- Camp Gonnawannagoagin is specifically for children ages 4 to 18 with a primary diagnosis of autism.
- Six one week sessions are offered each summer, typically from early July to mid August.
- Applications are available on line in the spring.
- Campers may attend up to 4 weeks.
- Camp is in session from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- Camp is located at 929 First Colonial Rd. in Virginia Beach, VA.
- Tuition is $275 per week. All activities and materials are included in the tuition. Families that qualify for free or reduced lunch in the school system may attend one week at a reduced tuition of $75. Other tuition assistance is limited and is handled on a case by case basis.
- Children and teens of all ability levels are welcome. Children who exhibit severe agression or biting may not be assigned a peer buddy or may be denied acceptance into the program. Camp is not currently prepared to meet the needs of children with severe physical disabilities.
- Each child is assigned an adult counselor. Counselors are adults who have experience working with children with autism or are pursuing a degree in special education or a related field.
- Each child is also assigned a non-disabled peer buddy. Siblings of children with autism are encouraged to volunteer.
- Counselors and volunteers employ best practices in behavior management and facilitating communication and participation.
- Picture schedules and a token reinforcement system are used throughout the day.
- Each day features a field trip into the community. Past outings have included trips to museums, bowling, skating, karate, yoga, laser tag, and boating.
- Campers are taken swimming every day.
- Arts and crafts, sports, games, cooking, and music are also incorporated into the program.
- If you have further questions please contact us.
- Summer Camp 2009 Application
Parent Comments
We’re very proud of our program and encourage you to support our efforts through volunteerism, fundraising, or a contribution of funds or services.
Camp has been a great experience for both of my children. My son Eric is a camper who doesn’t have a lot of group activities that he can participate in because of his behavior. He is non-verbal but I can read from him loud and clear how much he enjoys the camp. My daughter Tara has been a junior counselor and the experience has enriched her and deepened her compassion for people with disabilities. They both have lots of fun!
- Debbie H.My 14 year old son Daniel has attended Camp for the past two years and absolutely loves it! Daniel has very limited speech, but while camp was in session, he would exclaim “camp!” every morning. Daniel often writes about how much he likes being around “real kids” so I know he enjoyed the fact that he had a peer buddy every week. In short, camp G was great for Daniel and also provides a wonderful break for me!
- Muriel H.My twin boys Christopher and Marcus have been going to camp for 6 years and they really enjoy it. It’s been a blessing. The boys are well cared for and the staff is “top notch”. I love the one-on-one buddy system that’s provided for each child; now that’s peace of mind.
- Denise H.What a great experience Andrew had this year! We appreciate the care your staff provided throughout the week. The one on one counselor to camper arrangement is what makes camp successful for these kids. The daily activities were great but even more special was the ability to make each camper feel part of his group. Please continue to provide this special opportunity for our kids.
- Pam G.