Surf is Up for Children with Autism

Below is the Press Release for our upcoming Surf Camp for Kids with Autism!!!!

“Surf Is Up for Children with Autism”
Saturday, August 16, 2008 – 11am –Cupsogue Beach, Westhampton, NY

Wayne, New Jersey (July 15, 2008) – Community Options, Inc., a national nonprofit organization providing residential, employment and recreational opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities, will be hosting its second annual "iMatter Surfing Camp" for Children with Autism at Cupsogue Beach in Westhampton on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2008 from 11am-4pm.

Jessica Guberman, Ph.D., Executive Director for Community Options and pioneer of the surf camp for kids says, "The 1st Annual Surf Camp was very successful. We have already tripled our number of participants from last year and are so excited about the 2008 camp. Families are so eager to sign their children up for the event and to participate in an innovative activity that connects children to the fun and therapeutic advantages of the water," says Guberman, Executive Director of Community Options. Community Options serves families from the five boroughs of New York City, Long Island, Northern New Jersey and throughout the country.


"Ten years ago, Autism was diagnosed in 1 out of 10,000 children, and considered a rare disorder," explains Guberman. "Today, Autism is diagnosed in 1 out of 150 children, and is a growing epidemic with no cure." There are 1.5 million people with Autism living in the United States today – 450,000 of whom are children in need of individualized special education programs. In fact, Autism is considered the fastest growing developmental disability.

Meanwhile, families of Autistic children in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Connecticut will be treated to this special event free of charge. The surf camp is being held at no cost to the families as the entire camp will be sponsored by local businesses. This year, the event is sponsored by Cancos Tile, Therapy Surf Shop, Red Dan Surveying and Birch Lane Elementary School.
The iMatter Surfing Camp was inspired by research that supports the concept that water is the ideal medium for exercise, and to rehabilitate the body. For children with Autism, aquatic therapy focuses on therapeutic, play-based functional movement, improving range of motion, helping to facilitate neurodevelopmental growth, improved body awareness, increased balance, sensory integration, mobility skills, and most importantly, having fun.

Community Options, headquartered in Princeton, N.J., is dedicated to providing support for children with developmental disabilities throughout the country. Community Options was founded in 1989 to develop residential and employment supports utilizing technology and training for people with severe disabilities. A national agency, Community Options has participated in institutional closure and community residential placement for thousands of people across several states. In its 19-year history, the agency has developed a reputation for quality, cost effective administration that encourages individual choice and flexibility.