Crafts, sports, swimming, yoga, a cardio drum circle — and so much more.
Welcome to S.T.A.R. Summer Camp, (Students Together for Acceptance and Respect) at Elmwood Park. It’s a special place where children with disabilities — including autism and Down Syndrome, as well as those in wheelchairs or struggling with behaviors and emotions — can have fun engaging in tailormade activities while learning and practicing social skills and sharpening math and reading competence.
There’s also an Alumni Camp tailor-made for those age 22 and older who want to continue their S.T.A.R. Camp experience.
Independence residents Jim Wotowiec, a retired North Royalton High School special education teacher, and his wife Lori, also a retired special education teacher and former school administrator, launched the camp 16 years ago with 20 participants. It has grown to serve 200 students from Northeast Ohio, ranging from preschooler to age 19.
The idea was sparked when the couple were spending a peaceful afternoon biking along the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail.
“We were enjoying the day, when Lori said, ‘I’d like to start a school for individuals with disabilities,’” Jim recalls, “and I said ‘Lori, we have three kids, and our calendars are too full.’ She paused and said, ‘Well, would you consider starting a summer camp and helping me direct it?’”
His answer: “Absolutely.”
Lori spearheaded a meeting with the Autism Society of Greater Cleveland, and the organization quickly lent its support. Through the years, S.T.A.R. opened to anyone who could benefit from the experience.
Each camper arrives with an individualized education plan from their respective school district. The Wotowiecs and their team meticulously study them, and tailormake activities geared toward participants’ needs.
“Everybody wants to feel wanted and be part of something,” Jim says. “Our mission is to be able to provide a camp experience for kids that allows them to grow as everybody else would want to grow, and provide activities that continue to foster independence and, most importantly, provide a support network.”
