Support the Arc of Greater East Texas
Transforming Lives Through Inclusive Respite Camps
The Arc of Greater East Texas provides life-changing, fully inclusive respite camp experiences for individuals with intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, and related conditions. Our camps welcome people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, and individuals with multiple disabilities who may require extensive support. We make what many believe is impossible, possible.
Our programs are designed not only to give caregivers meaningful respite but also to surround campers with the joy of friendship, chosen family, and genuine community.
Camp Heyday
Overnight Camp — Ages 18 and up
Camp Heyday offers adults with IDD a classic nearly week-long camp experience filled with friends, laughter, and opportunities for growth. Campers enjoy outdoor recreation, crafts, music, and nature activities while gaining confidence and independence. Meanwhile, families and caregivers receive several days of essential respite.
Camp Kennedy
Overnight Camp — Ages 15 and up
Camp Kennedy provides a more physically engaging nearly week-long experience for older teens and adults with IDD. Campers participate in hiking, archery/target practice, swimming, and hands-on science and team-building activities. Every moment is designed to empower campers and show them that they are capable, valued, and strong.
Camp Friendship
Day Camp (Fall & Spring) — Ages 12 and up
Camp Friendship is a highly supported day camp for teens and adults with IDD, including individuals who are medically fragile or need extensive assistance. Through adaptive crafts, sensory activities, music, movement, and social interaction, every camper experiences belonging, joy, and meaningful connection.
Camp Holiday
Day Camp — December Edition — Ages 12 and up
Camp Holiday is a joyful, highly supported seasonal day camp for teens and adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, including individuals who are medically fragile or require extensive assistance. This special December session blends adaptive holiday crafts, sensory-rich winter activities, music, movement, and meaningful social interaction.
Every camper experiences the warmth of belonging, the excitement of the season, and the joy of celebrating together in a safe and inclusive community.
Why These Camps Matter
These camps are more than recreation; they are vital opportunities for campers to practice and strengthen social skills, communication, coping skills, leisure skills, self-advocacy, and independence. These are skills many people take for granted, yet they dramatically improve quality of life for individuals with IDD.
Camp also strengthens families. Parents and caregivers, who give endless love, support, and energy, rarely have time for themselves. Whether they need a chance to rest, reconnect socially, run errands alone, or simply breathe without interruption, respite is essential. All of us need breaks to stay healthy and whole, and this is especially true for caregivers of individuals with IDD.
Through your support, campers gain community, friendship, and personal growth, and caregivers receive the time they need to restore their own well-being.