The Cooper Royall Foundation Information

We seek to enhance the offerings available to special needs individuals and their families in the following ways: THERAPEUTIC PRESCHOOLS There is no feeling more helpless than receiving a diagnosis for your child and having no clue what to do next. Am I doing enough? How will my child learn? Who can help me? Therapeutic preschools are an incredible resource for a variety of therapies and social interactivity in a fun, school-like setting. CRF seeks to provide programs with specialty equipment and educational materials to take them to the next level. K-12 PEER AND PARENT AWARENESS What are Special Needs? What is it like to play with a child with Down Syndrome? Or Autism? How do I talk to my child about including children with disabilities in their activities? Do they know what to do when they see someone with disabilities being bullied? CRF is exploring ways to develop a school-age awareness and inclusion platform that provides insight to all of the above for children and their parents to ensure our K-12 environments are as nourishing as they can be. POST-SECONDARY COLLEGE PROGRAMS Until recently, the opportunity for individuals with intellectual disabilities to attend college programs was an unknown. Transitional programs have grown in number and sophistication across the country, enabling individuals to learn to live more independently, attain job skills, and experience University culture. CRF is actively seeking partnerships with programs such as ClemsonLIFE to amplify the impact they are having for special needs individuals, their families, and the students of their institutions. SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPS Camps focusing on special needs are available across the country, providing chances for outdoor activities, social engagement, and exploration tailored to the unique abilities of their attendees. CRF is identifying regional opportunities to enhance the offerings at places such as Camp Royall, the nation’s oldest and largest camp for individuals with Autism.