Red Cedar Center on Hursh Road is a special place. The large horse farm offers horseback riding lessons, boarding, therapeutic riding, and recreational camps. It's so lovely - mature trees and verdant fields, white-washed fences and a swimming lake that glitters and beckons.
This week, the country park has a special mission - it's hosting disabled campers. Camp Red Cedar features different kinds of camps - allows kids in wheelchairs the opportunity to go swimming, facilitates kids with cerebral palsy in riding horses, etc. This week it's a home to another unique group of campers - teens with autism.
Autism Community Together coordinates this much-needed camp in Fort Wayne. Fine people have put on the camp for seven years now. The activities would be fun for any kid campers, but are of course tailored to the busy autism community and the stimulation the kids need.
There is music therapy, tumbling, soccer, and an obstacle course. I think the most popular activities are the horseback riding (with helmets and guides/trainers) and the swimming fun. The day is rounded out with crafts and Karate. At the end of the week, the kids will tie-dye a shirt as a keepsake.
Earlier today, I saw an anxious child tear through the parking lot, not able to patiently wait for the parent picking him up. Three counselors charged after him, moving quickly - a kid with autism on the run. It was touching- the concern, the bolting child. It's great these kids have a special place to go, where there is much compassion for them. They can just be kids, enjoying the best of summer.
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