Welcome to our newest segment of Camp ASCCA: The Podcast – The Nanny Edition!

In this special series, we take a deep dive into what it means to care for children with disabilities. What does that care really look like? How can you get involved? And what lessons can be learned along the way?

In Part One, we welcome Tyree McIntosh, a former ASCCA staff member, as she shares her journey of becoming an au pair overseas. Tyree reflects on how the experience she gained at ASCCA helped shape and prepare her for this new calling.

Tune in and listen today to hear her inspiring story!

In this episode, we learn more about the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division, from Marianne Gauldin, the Outreach Specialist. The episode explores all things related to the outdoors, accessibility, and how you can begin to embrace the natural beauty that surrounds us every day. To learn more, visit: https://www.outdooralabama.com/

In our latest episode of Camp ASCCA: The Podcast, we're joined by Kelly Edens, a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist and the Therapeutic Recreation Manager at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia. With 25 years of experience, Kelly shares insights into her career journey and highlights the incredible programs and services The Shepherd Center offers for individuals with spinal cord and brain injuries. 

In this episode of Camp ASCCA: The Podcast, we're joined by Debbie Lynn, Director of Easterseals Central Alabama. Debbie leads a team of 40 dedicated professionals providing vital services to individuals with disabilities across the region.

She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Alabama and a master's from Auburn University at Montgomery.

Learn more about the impactful work being done at Easterseals Central Alabama by visiting: https://eastersealscentralalabama.org/

In our latest episode, we have the opportunity to talk with Michael Pereira, founder of The Autism Voyage, a specialized financial services firm for families with special needs. Michael has firsthand experience navigating the unknown—his son was diagnosed with autism during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. He now shares his expertise in financial planning and support for families with special needs. Michael’s personal insight and commitment help similar families navigate their unique challenges.

Zach Woolley, former camper and current fellow at NCHPAD (National Center on Health, Physical Activity, and Disability), shares his incredible journey with Camp ASCCA and all he has achieved while living with a disability.

Zach attended Camp ASCCA from 1998 to 2012 and proudly credits his time there as a major influence on the meaningful work he’s doing today.

Tune in to hear Zach’s inspiring story of resilience, growth, and impact!

Nathan Waters, Assistant Director of the Office of Accessibility at Auburn University, is a Camp ASCCA summer and full-time staff alumni! He started at ASCCA while a student at Auburn University and credits Camp with his successful career path. Nathan was the Outdoor Adventure Director and gained valuable experience that has led him to be a great man, supervisor, husband, and father. We are proud to know Nathan and anticipate all the good things he will continue to accomplish.

In the latest episode of Camp ASCCA: The Podcast, we sit down with John Latimer, Camp & Community Program Director at Camp Seale Harris. CSH's mission is to educate, encourage, and empower children with diabetes and their families to live well. Listen today to learn more about CSH, the individuals they serve, and the lives impacted by this organization.

In this episdoe of Camp ASCCA: The Podcast, we had the opportunity to chat with Dr. Elizabeth Stewart. Elizabeth is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Special Education at the University of Alabama. She is also heavily involved with United Ability and Alabama's Accessing Potential Through Assistive Technology (APT AT). Elizabeth worked as a counselor at Camp ASCCA in 2002 and says that it has played a role in where she is with her career now. 

Lindsey Piazza is an assistant clincial professor in the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences as well as an instructor for the EAGLES program at Auburn University. This episode dives into what speech pathology is, the EAGLES program, and augmentative and alternative communication devices. To learn more about Lindsey visit: https://cla.auburn.edu/directory/lindsey-piazza/