The YMCA of San Diego County receives thousands of requests each year from parents in need of financial assistance, so their children might attend Y camp. I would like to share one of those requests with you, an email we received last summer from twelve year old Aidan’s mom.

Last year, Aidan’s 2 year old brother was diagnosed with Autism, a condition that requires intense early intervention. Aidan’s mom wrote, “Aidan has been a teacher to our little guy, a playmate, and the most patient, loving big brother any kid could ask for, much less one with special needs!” Aidan is also a military child and has weathered dad’s deployments to war and months spent away from home on official duty. His mother shared, “Aidan has stood with me when we've done the send off to war.” Aidan’s mother is disabled with limited mobility and has undergone multiple back surgeries during the past few years. When Dad is gone, Aidan assists his mother with her needs.

This special young man has grown up quickly all while dealing with his own Asperger’s Disorder, ADHA, and a Learning Disorder. In a world where military insurance doesn’t always cover medical expenses, parental focus is trained on a sibling who doesn’t understand why mommy can’t pick him up, and where dad is often in harm’s way, Aidan never complains. “He is a very, very good child, with a heart bigger than most!” boasts mom, who ends her email “I do not ask for special consideration for my son, as I know that every family has their own struggles and stories, I only ask for consideration, should the space availability arise.”

Thanks to previous donors’ generosity coupled with Operation Purple (a Sierra Club/Foundation funded camping program for military kids) Aidan went to Y camp last summer. For the first time EVER, Aidan had a week away from responsibilities, worries, and every day pressures. He discovered new friendships, camp songs, rock walls, archery, mountain hikes, and a billion stars in the nighttime sky. Aidan is just one of so many kids who need a little extra help. Aidan was lucky and had the YMCA, Operation Purple, and his mom on his side, but there are thousands of kids struggling through similar battles that have no one to turn to.

Last year, through the generosity of others, we were able to send over 2,000 kids to camp. This year, your contribution will be even more meaningful since changes in our economy are affecting so many families and the children who really do need the YMCA and a camping experience.

You can help! Kids like Aidan, are depending on you.

Carol Le Beau
Kids to Camp Honorary Chair