Spectrum Sailing, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides maritime education, programming and outreach for autistic individuals, will host a camp in Charleston with College of Charleston Sailing from Oct. 2-4.
Spectrum Sailing was born out of necessity after founder Scott Herman faced challenges enrolling his autistic son in summer camp. After encountering this gap for children with autism, Herman, a lifelong sailor, started his own camp. He built what the organization says is the only autism sailing camp in South Carolina.
The program has since expanded from one week in Charleston to 13 camps across the country, giving more than 700 children the opportunity to attend free sailing camps. Spectrum Sailing says it is the only national autism sailing camp.
“Sailing has been a lifelong sport for me. The relationships and opportunities sailing has brought to my life are endless,” said Herman, whose son is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. “Those relationships have helped make Spectrum Sailing a reality. It is amazing I was able to share the sport of sailing with my son, but now I get to share it with kids across the country.”
The three-day program covers general sailing knowledge with professional instructors, including lessons on:
- Water safety rules
- Wind direction and points of sail
- Boat parts
- On-the-water conditions
- Knots and rigging and de-rigging
For many participants, the program provides their first opportunity to take part in a recreational program that accommodates their needs.
“Spectrum Sailing is about more than just sailing,” Herman said. “We meet kids where they are and help them discover what they’re capable of.”
Spectrum Sailing aims to give autistic children opportunities to learn new skills and participate in recreational activities.
For more information or to donate, visit Spectrum Sailing’s website.