Whispering Winds Provides A Place Of Refuge For Those With Special Needs
12/15/22
Whispering Winds Camp and Conference Center
- Located in the Laguna Mountains, an hour's drive east of America's Finest City
- Offers a unique Family Camp experience for families with children with special needs
- Celebrating its 10th year
- Founded by Stephanie Kiesel, a lawyer who saw the challenges faced by families with special needs children
Impact on Families
- Provides a chance for families to have recreation and be part of a community
- Allows families to create traditions and make memories
- Gives parents a break and the opportunity to have a date night
- Offers a safe and understanding environment for special campers
- Helps families feel supported and understood
Special Buddies
- Dozens of volunteers who dedicate their time to ensure families have a memorable experience
- Families who have never allowed anyone outside of their family to care for their special camper now entrust them to the special buddies
- Special buddies play a crucial role in meeting the needs of the special campers
- Stephanie's vision of special buddies has been well-received by many families
- The need for special buddies is growing as the program expands
Personal Stories
- David and Claudia Ayala have made the Special Needs Family Camp a tradition for their son Josh
- Andy Finch and her family have embraced the joy of being special buddies
- Stevenson and Andy have developed a special bond over the years
- Nikki Kojis and her family have found a second family at the camp
- Live music is a favorite activity for Josh and brings joy to the campers
The Power of Camp
- Whispering Winds provides a place of refuge and acceptance for those with special needs
- Allows special needs kids to express themselves through dancing and singing
- Campers feel embraced and loved by the camp community
- Provides an opportunity for families to connect with others who understand their journey
- Camp has a profound impact on the lives of both campers and volunteers
