Meet “Matthew”
Young Camper at JCC of Central NJ

“Matthew” is a five-year-old boy from Westfield with a diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy with right-sided hemiparesis (the muscles on the right side of his body are paralyzed) and a speech delay. Due to his low muscle tone, Matthew wears a brace on his lower leg, is at higher risk for falls and requires close supervision during physical tasks.

Matthew and his older brother enrolled in the JCC’s Camp Yachad for the first time a few summers ago, and Matthew received a 1:1 Shadow Counselor that would assist him with physical tasks allowing him to successfully participate alongside his neurotypical peers in the pre-k program.

During camp, Matthew blossomed! His Shadow Counselor, a Kean University student majoring in Therapeutic Recreation, supported him during physical tasks, all the while fading her support so that he could become more independent. The Shadow Counselor also worked with Matthew to help him learn how to take his leg brace off and on before and after swimming.

The Shadow Counselor expertly stepped in to provide discreet support when needed, and stepped back to promote Matthew’s independence. With consistent support, Matthew learned to navigate the campsite safely despite his low muscle tone, and was able to participate safely alongside his peers!

While most campers in the Shadow Program require a consistent level of care and support through the summer, this particular success story is an inspiring example of how we individualize supports through the Shadow Program and truly prioritize camper independence. Matthew, his Shadow Counselor, his camp friends and most of all, his family, were extremely proud of Matthew’s accomplishments in camp and grateful for the 1:1 support that helped Matthew achieve this new level of independence!