Camp Dates:
Monday, June 13-Friday, June 17, 2022
Session Times:
All sessions are now FULL for swimmers; however, volunteer spots are still open in each session.
9:00 am-9:45 am (ages 3-7)
10:15 am-11:00 am (ages 3-7)
11:30 am-12:30 pm (ages 8-12)
1:45 pm-2:45 pm (ages 8-12)
3:15 pm-4:15 pm (ages 13 & older)
Camp Overview:
iCan Shine's iCan Swim program is designed to teach individuals with disabilities ages 3 and older the foundation of safely enjoying aquatic environments and promoting as much independent movement in the water as possible! Each swimmer participating in iCan Swim has their unique goals. Goals will range from an introduction to water exploration, learning water safety in aquatic environments, learning to swim, and/or skill refinement in preparation to join a Special Olympics, Paralympic or other swim team. These goals are accomplished in a safe, supportive, inclusive and fun environment with the assistance of volunteers.
Swimmers attend the same 45-minute or 60-minute session each day for five consecutive days (M-F) depending on their age. They will learn to swim and safely navigate aquatic environments while accompanied and encouraged by volunteers. Over the course of the 5-day camp, the individual is gradually introduced to new concepts and challenges as they discover the skill and joy of swimming.
Swimmer Requirements:
• have a disability (this camp is also open to swimmers outside the Down syndrome community)
• be at least 3 years of age at the start of swim camp
• individuals with a tracheostomy are not eligible
• if swimmer has a G-tube, the stoma should be at least two months old
Registration:
All sessions are now FULL, and registration is closed for swimmers.
Volunteer Opportunities:
iCan Swim relies on the assistance of over 30 community volunteers to provide emotional and physical support to camp participants. Volunteers must be at least 15 years old, physically fit, and be comfortable assisting another person in the water. iCan Swim requires at least 1 volunteer per swimmer, and swimmers will not be allowed in the water without a volunteer. Ideally, volunteers will commit to all 5 days of camp so the same swimmer and volunteer are partnered all week. Volunteers may serve one or multiple sessions per day. Experience working with individuals with IDD is preferred, but not required. Ongoing training and support is provided throughout the week, and there is a mandatory volunteer training on Sunday, June 12. Certified lifeguards are also needed. Lifeguards should contact Jennifer Ford for more details.