(Courtesy of HASC) Finally… summer is here! Close to 600 staff members spent an intensive four day training orientation for the upcoming summer. Engaging presentations and workshops led by Camp HASC professionals in the field of developmental disabilities and special needs covered a wide range of topics, including sensitivity training, communication, understanding disabilities, state rules and regulations. Training sessions facilitated by leading behavioral therapists focused on autism and behavior health, while doctors and nurses provided hours of training and preparation relating to the complex medical issues of the camper population.

Rav Yehuda Willig shlita, Camp HASC morah d’asrah, delivered a series of shiurim addressing the litany of halachic issues that staff members will face and shared meaningful perspectives in hashkafa on being a staff member at Camp HASC.

There are more than a dozen departments at Camp HASC, including physical and occupational therapy, a professional academics program and a robust recreation program. Dozens of medical and behavioral professionals are on campus to ensure the wellbeing and safety of the campers.

For a group of young men right out of yeshiva and young women post-sem, assuming such responsibility can be daunting. Administering a feeding tube, washing, dressing and feeding campers, learning seizure protocol and other sensitive medical and developmental information can be overwhelming.

The days of training aimed to guide and empower the dedicated, altruistic direct care and support staff to go beyond their comfort zones and prepare for a summer of giving, mesirus nefesh, service and responsibility. In the words of camper parent, Andy Goldsmith of Cedarhurst: “We take our teenagers, and we send them to Camp HASC. We make them responsible for the care and feeding of another human being—and they astound us with their capacity!”

The carefully crafted orientation balanced a serious focus on ensuring the highest level standard of professional care with uplifting sessions filled with chizuk and inspiration.

A Shabbos of ruach and connecting framed the summer from a Torah perspective, charging the staff with a sense of achrayus and empowerment. Packed with learning, singing and shiurim, hundreds of staff members enjoyed an unforgettable Shabbos in preparation for a summer of chesed and growth.

Here’s to these incredible young men and women and the extraordinary staff at Camp HASC. Looking forward to another amazing summer of chesed and fun!