A Summer to Remember at Kids Like Me and Advance LA

This summer, Help Group welcomed one of our largest groups of summer campers ever. Kids Like Me brought together children and teens ages 6–17, while Advance LA offered summer experiences for young adults ages 18–22. Across both programs, participants had the opportunity to make new connections, explore their interests, and enjoy a summer designed with neurodiverse individuals in mind. 

Kids Like Me creates spaces where neurodivergent children and teens can learn, play, and belong. Our summer programs give participants the opportunity to explore their interests while building friendships and becoming more independent. Just as importantly, camp is a place to have fun and be part of a community that understands and supports them. 

Throughout the summer, campers took part in activities ranging from sports and cooking to creative projects and community outings. With programs designed for different ages and support needs, participants were able to engage at their own pace while experiencing everything that makes summer camp special. 

“Kids Like Me and Advance LA are about giving every participant the opportunity to feel included and experience the joy of being part of a community,” said Fatima Gutierrez, Senior Manager, Arts and Recreation. “We see the impact in so many ways, from a child making a new friend to a young adult becoming more confident and independent. Those moments are what our program is all about.” 

A New Pathway for Teen Leaders 

One of the highlights of this summer was the launch of our new Counselor in Training (CIT) Program for teens ages 13–17. 

CITs took on a different role at camp. Working alongside experienced staff, they helped with camp activities and supported younger campers while gaining hands-on experience in a real work environment. The program was designed to strengthen leadership and job-readiness skills while giving teens greater responsibility. 

For participants like Finn, that meant experiencing camp not just as a camper, but as a mentor and emerging leader. 

Want to see what that looks like? Watch our “Day in the Life” video on Instagram and follow Finn through a day as a Kids Like Me Counselor in Training. 

Finn’s experience is just one example of what made this summer so special. Across our programs, campers challenged themselves, formed new friendships, and created memories that will last well beyond the final day of camp. 

For more information about our after-school, school break, and summer camp programs, visit www.kidslikemela.org and www.advancela.org.