The Autism Society of the Mahoning Valley is proud to continue its time-honored tradition of Camp F.R.I.E.N.D., a program dedicated to serving youth and young adults with Autism across our community. Camp F.R.I.E.N.D. provides an inclusive, supportive, and engaging environment where participants are encouraged to grow in confidence, independence, and connection. Through meaningful, hands-on activities led by qualified professionals, we create opportunities for individuals to build social skills, explore new experiences, and develop lifelong abilities. At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to ensuring every participant feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Mission:

The mission of Camp F.R.I.E.N.D. is to provide inclusive, equitable summer and year-round camp experiences for students with Autism and their peers. Our programs are designed and led by qualified professionals who create a supportive environment where every participant can succeed. We structure daily activities around social skill–building themes, offering fun, engaging, and evidence-based learning experiences that promote growth, confidence, and meaningful connection.

Philosophy/Service:

Camp F.R.I.E.N.D.’s philosophy is to respond to the needs of the families through community based therapeutic activities to provide the same opportunities to children with autism and related disabilities that are experienced by their same aged peers.

Programs:

• Traditional Camp F.R.I.E.N.D: Jewish Community Center of Youngstown
  • A week-long day camp for youth ages 5–19 focused on friendship, inclusion, and social development. Campers participate in structured activities that build confidence, independence, and peer connection in a supportive setting.
    • Ages 5-8 Friendship
    • Ages 9-12 Teamwork
    • Ages 13-19 Leadership and Community Integration
• Career Exploration Camp F.R.I.E.N.D: Ages 14–22 | Week-long immersive day camp program
  • This program provides structured, hands-on career exploration and workforce readiness experiences. Participants strengthen communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and independence skills while exploring real-world career pathways and post-secondary opportunities.
• Camp F.R.I.E.N.D Pop-Up Day Camps: Across the Mahoning Valley | Year-round One-day satellite camp experiences that bring Camp F.R.I.E.N.D. directly into local communities.
  • These flexible programs reduce barriers to access while offering themed, engaging activities that build social and life skills in a fun, supportive environment.
  • Serve participants ages 5-19.