About Us
History
Camp Good Times of Charleston began in 1972. We were initially part of the Charleston County School District and started as a summer enrichment program for children with autism. Unfortunately, in 1996, the program lost its funding through the state of South Carolina. In an effort to continue providing services to families of children with autism, several teachers previously involved with Camp Good Times, along with staff members from the Autism Division of South Carolina's Department of Disabilities and Special Needs, banded together to continue the summer program.
Without money for staff and supplies, and without a building to house the camp, the job seemed almost impossible. Fortunately, the Department of Disabilities and Special Needs earmarked a grant for $24,000 to assist us in our efforts to keep the camp running. We also found a temporary location to hold our camp at Ashley River Creative Arts Elementary.
That same year, we decided to shift the focus away from an extended school year and toward an activity-oriented summer camp providing the campers with experiences they would never have otherwise. It also acquired an "official" name - Camp Good Times, so named by a group of middle school aged campers with autism.
Camp Good Times began actively recruiting peers from school and church groups in an attempt to establish a peer/camper ratio of 50/50. The campers and peers thoroughly enjoyed each other's company and benefited equally from being together and a true "camp" was born.
Since 1996, we have continued to grow at a steady pace. In 2003, Camp Good Times of Charleston Inc. became an official 501c3, nonprofit organization.
We've had several temporary homes at various local elementary schools. Today, camp is held at Ladson Elementary School in the month of June and accommodates more than 110 campers. Private donations, community fund raising and support, grant writing and camper fees currently fund the 10-day camp. Typical camp activities include swimming, field trips, sports, arts and crafts, dancing, singing, playing instruments, talent shows, and much more!
In 2004, we brought on a recreation specialist to help plan outdoor activities and a "sensory room" equipped with a platform swing, body sox, beanbags, a bounce pillow, ball pit, tactile walking path and other soothing items. The sensory room provides an environment where campers are able to relax or soothe themselves if they become over-stimulated during camp activities.
Camp Good Times continues to focus its efforts on meeting the growing need of resources for children with autism in the tri-county area of Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties. With one in 150 children being diagnosed with autism in our community each year, the need to provide a longer camp experience that is accessible to more children is incredibly important. We are dedicated to continuing our efforts and look forward to supporting the children and families affected by autism in the Lowcountry.
