DD Charity Update – Camp SkyWild

For this DD Charity update, we're catching up with the team at Camp SkyWild.

Through the DD Charity Programme, we've supported Camp SkyWild with DD hammocks and tarps for their 2026 summer session. We spoke to the team to learn more about the organisation, the community they've created and how the new equipment will be used at camp.

Tell us about Camp SkyWild?

Camp SkyWild is a nonprofit summer camp and year-round program designed specifically for autistic children, teens, and adults, as well as their neurotypical siblings. Our programs combine the magic of traditional camp (nature, new friends, adventure, and fun) with intentional support around social connection, independence, and self-confidence. We create spaces where campers can be fully themselves, try new things at their own pace, and experience belonging in a community that truly understands them.

How did you become involved?

I founded Camp SkyWild in 2023 with Erin Ross after spending the prior decade running other specialty camps like Camp Tall Tree (a Michigan camp for kids with autism and their siblings) and Dragonfly Forest (a full-summer Pennsylvania camp with a week-long session for kids with sickle cell anemia, hemophilia, 22q chromosome deletion, persistent asthma, and autism).

Camp SkyWild was born from the shared belief that autistic people deserve formative overnight camp experiences designed for them, not adapted as an afterthought. Many of us on the leadership team have long histories working in autism support, inclusive recreation, and summer camps. Over time, we saw a need for a place that balanced structure and freedom, support and independence, and sensory awareness with authentic camp joy, and Camp SkyWild grew from that vision.

What is the best part of working for Camp SkyWild?

The best part is watching campers relax into themselves. Seeing someone who arrived anxious or unsure find a quiet place in nature, build friendships, try something new, or simply feel safe enough to play in the lane of their existing special interests tells me that we are doing something right, that we are building a community where lots of different people can find belonging. Camp SkyWild is about creating moments of confidence and connection, and being part of creating those moments is a privilege I cherish.

What is the plan for the DD Hammocks & Tarps?

The DD Hammocks and tarps will be used to create a dedicated Hammock Village at Camp SkyWild for our 2026 summer session. This space will serve as a calm, sensory-friendly area where campers can rest, regulate, socialize, or take a break from high-energy activities. Hammocks are especially powerful for our community, offering deep pressure, gentle movement, and a strong sense of personal space, making them both fun and therapeutic. This village will quickly become a favorite gathering and decompression spot for campers and staff alike.

Where can our followers find out about what Camp SkyWild is doing?

Website: https://www.campskywild.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/campskywild
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/campskywild

We're pleased to support Camp SkyWild through the DD Charity Programme and look forward to seeing the Hammock Village become part of their 2026 summer session.

If you're part of a registered charity, nonprofit, CIC or community organisation that could benefit from support through our Charity Programme, we'd love to hear from you.