Over the past several years, the Special School District (SSD) Kid-to-Camp Challenge has played a crucial role in the success of the Special Education Foundation’s back-to-school fundraising efforts. This initiative has significantly contributed to the Dan McLaughlin Charity Golf Tournament and Auction, helping raise funds to support students with disabilities.
The concept is straightforward: SSD staff members contribute to their SSD Team (their school, partner district, or SSD department) to raise funds for a student to attend camp. The aim of the Kid-to-Camp Challenge is for each SSD Team to raise a minimum of $250 and earn recognition on a banner displayed at the Golf Tournament & Auction and later at the Central Office.
And what happens to your donation? It helps send a student like Max to summer camp.
Max was so excited to go to camp every day. He made two new friends, one of whom came to his birthday party in August. His friend had just moved here from Ukraine, and Max was so generous as he worked to become friends with someone he recognized as shy and insecure about his English language skills.
Max also regularly interacted with a staff member who talked openly about being autistic and who worked with Max on advocating for himself. This was a new experience for Max, and it did wonders for his self-esteem to interact with a confident, capable, and openly autistic adult that he liked and respected. It was an invaluable experience.
Your donation as part of the Kid-to-Camp Challenge is not just a contribution, it's a part of a collective effort that makes these amazing camp experiences happen for students. Your role in this community is invaluable.
And one of the best ways to donate is through SSD’s Payroll Deduction program.
However, the deadline for SSD employees to sign up for payroll deduction is this weekend!
Time is running out. Can you help us out today?
Here's how you can help:
Sign up for payroll deduction. You can donate in one lump sum donation or distribute your donation of $50 or more over eight pay periods beginning in October.
Donate online with this link. You can make a one-time donation or sign up to give monthly.
The Special Education Foundation is deeply grateful for the generosity of so many SSD employees who donate. Your contributions are not just numbers. They are a testament to your commitment to our cause. We hope you’ll join them in helping send a kid to camp.
