Explore Camp Opportunities for All Abilities With Our Summer Camp List
Inclusive camps for all ages offer fun, friendships and new adventures!
Are you looking for the perfect camp opportunity for your child or young adult?
Check out our 2026 summer camp list. You’ll find accessible day, overnight and family camps across Illinois and beyond.
These programs welcome campers with a wide range of needs and abilities, including many of our Core Program’s eligible medical conditions. The camps also cater to many different interests, such as:
- Building independence and self-advocacy skills
- Participating in adaptive sports
- Exploring the great outdoors
- Taking a deeper dive into science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)
- Cooking, art, drama and more
There are several ways to search for camps on our website:
- View our 2026 summer camp list
- Use the search box and filter option on our Events page to search for camps and other related keywords and locations
- Use our Events Calendar view
Our list continues to grow, so check back often!
Be sure to check with your local Special Recreation Association and/or park district programs for day camps near you. Some camp lotteries and programs are now open for registration. Spots will fill up fast.
Please note that DSCC shares these camp opportunities on behalf of other organizations. If you have questions about a specific camp, please contact the camp sponsor or organizer using the listed phone number or website.
If you know about a good summer camp opportunity to add to our list, please send us the details at dscc@uic.edu.
Here’s to a fantastic summer filled with smiles, new skills and fun new experiences!
Hop Over to Inclusive Egg Hunts and Sensory-Friendly Bunny Visits Across Illinois
Hunt for eggs, see the Easter Bunny and enjoy plenty of family fun at sensory-friendly events in March and April
Wondering where the Easter Bunny will hop next?
The Division of Specialized Care for Children’s (DSCC) Special Events page can help you find sensory-friendly bunny visits and egg hunt options for individuals with disabilities of all ages.
The Bunny Cares program offers Easter Bunny visits in a calmer, quieter environment that supports visitors’ sensory, physical and developmental needs. Autism Speaks and Cherry Hill Programs have partnered to provide these special Bunny Cares photo opportunities.
Bunny Cares events will take place at several malls in Illinois on Sunday, March 22.
You can click on the locations below to learn more and book your free sensory bunny visit (be sure to view “Bunny Hours” and “Event Schedule,” or search the event schedule for “Bunny Cares,” “Caring Bunny” or “Sensory Bunny” for each location):
The Bunny Cares experiences are free. Photos will be available to buy at each event. Space is limited. Visit the Bunny Cares website for a complete list of sites and more details.
There are more “eggs-cellent” opportunities to meet the Easter Bunny and hunt for eggs throughout Illinois.
If you’re located in the west and northwest suburbs, check out Kidlist for Easter egg hunts and more.
We’ve also highlighted a variety of egg hunts and bunny visits happening in communities across the state. These events include:
- Sensory-Friendly Easter Event in Springfield on March 21 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- LLDSS Annual Easter Egg Hunt in Chatham on March 28 from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Sensory Egg Hunt at Mount Greenwood Park in Chicago on March 26 from 6 to 7 p.m.
- Hippity Hop Breakfast Party in Schaumburg on March 28 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Edwardsville Children’s Museum EGGstravaganza in Edwardsville on March 28 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Williamson County Fair Easter Egg Hunt and Car Show in Marion on April 4 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Our Special Events page has more opportunities to find colorful eggs, have fun and celebrate spring.
Many of the events are free.
Please note that DSCC shares many of these community events on behalf of other organizations. If you have questions about a specific event, please contact the event sponsor or organizer using the contact number or website listed for each program.
Happy hopping and hunting!
Illinois Miss Amazing Amplify Event Brings Opportunity to Shine
Build friendships, boost self-confidence, and practice key self-advocacy skills in a fun and supportive environment at the Illinois Miss Amazing Amplify 2026 event for girls and women with disabilities
Miss Amazing is a national nonprofit program that encourages girls and women with disabilities to consider their goals, challenge themselves and take pride in who they are.
The 2026 Illinois Miss Amazing program is accepting applications for its Amplify event on Feb. 21 at Center Stage Theater in Naperville. Applications are due on Jan. 24.
Participation in the 2026 Illinois Miss Amazing Amplify event is open to girls and women ages 5 and older who have:
- An Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Individualized Program Plan (IPP)
- A 504 Plan
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- A physician’s records proving disability
Amplify event activities will include:
- Show rehearsal
- Interviewing
- Passion presentation
- Hair, makeup and more
Download the Amplify Participant Guide to learn more about the program.
Let your light shine at the Illinois Miss Amazing Amplify event! Fill out the Illinois Miss Amazing Participant Registration form online.
Illinois Miss Amazing will accept applications through Jan. 24 or until all spots are filled.
Do you want to volunteer? Join others with and without disabilities who will lend a hand on and off the stage. Apply to volunteer or visit the Miss Amazing website to learn more about volunteer options.
For more information about participating in or volunteering for the Illinois program, please visit the Illinois Miss Amazing website or email the event co-directors at director.il@missamazing.org.
Information Technology Support Associate Earns DSCC’s 2025 Award of Merit
DSCC honors Zack Alumbaugh for his outstanding customer service, collaboration and dedication to serving Illinois children and families
Information Technology Support Associate Zack Alumbaugh is the 2025 recipient of the Award of Merit from the University of Illinois Chicago’s Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC).
The award recognizes exceptional DSCC employees for outstanding dedication and service to Illinois children with special healthcare needs and their families.
Zack joined the DSCC Information Technology (IT) team in 2020 and is based in our Central Administrative Office (CAO) in Springfield. His can-do attitude, dedication to resolving a wide range of IT challenges and kindness have made an impact in Springfield and beyond.
“Zack brings unwavering patience, creative problem-solving and genuine empathy to every interaction and challenge he faces,” DSCC Executive Director Thomas F. Jerkovitz said.
“His expertise and caring attitude have benefited every department at DSCC and given our team members the reliable support they need to best serve our participants. He understands the importance of DSCC’s mission and continually finds new opportunities to improve processes that, in turn, improve outcomes and services for families.”
Zack said he considers his role at DSCC to be much more than a job.
“What we do matters. We help participants and their families get access to assistance and care that makes a difference in their lives. DSCC is a shining example of the way a society can come together to care for each other and improve lives,” he said.
DSCC managers and colleagues nominated Zack for the award. They praise his outstanding contributions to the IT team, exceptional customer service and ability to resolve a wide range of technical issues with patience, professionalism and warmth.
“Zack skillfully bridges the gap between technology and the people who rely on it, demonstrating an extraordinary ability to anticipate needs and deliver clear, effective solutions. His remarkable capacity for communication has established him as a trusted resource across multiple departments, making him a linchpin in our organization,” said Andrew Nichols, Director of Information Systems, Security, and Compliance.
Whether the project is public-facing or behind the scenes, Assistant Director of Operations for Information Technology Greg Mayes says Zack’s combination of technical ability and exemplary customer service shines through.
“Zack’s incredibly intelligent with a great sense of humor and has a calming presence that puts everyone at ease,” Greg said.
Lombard Core Assistant Regional Manager Celestine Gatson couldn’t agree more.
“Zack’s work always, always, always exemplifies our mission. He’s always willing to be helpful,” Celestine said.
IT Training and Development Specialist Lynda Miller appreciates the many ways Zack “pours his heart into his work.”
“He never gives up on tough issues. He always follows through, and staff tell me how much they appreciate his support and his kindness,” Lynda continued. “Zack exemplifies our mission by collaborating with others, offering dependable support and building strong, trusting relationships across the team.”
Zack also enjoys spreading awareness about DSCC’s programs. He has supported key community outreach events, including the annual Illinois Statewide Transition Conference and the Sensory Station at the Illinois State Fair.
“At events, like the transition conference or other in-person meetings, he is quick to help and understands the importance of the work we do at DSCC. He works hard to ensure that things run smoothly and is willing to help in any way possible to ensure that everyone has a great experience,” said Benefits Management and Data Analytics Manager Brittani Provost.
Springfield and St. Clair Assistant Regional Manager Kathy Thomas praises Zack’s ability to get to the root of an issue and see it through.
“I have also seen him help at the Illinois State Fair. He gets out and talks with the families, playing games with the kids. It is great to see him out there promoting DSCC,” she said.
Zack joined DSCC at the encouragement of his mother, Stephanie Alumbaugh. Stephanie has worked at DSCC for over 20 years and received the Award of Merit herself in 2011 through UIC.
Zack calls this honor a “full-circle moment” for his family. He says he couldn’t be more thankful for the opportunity to work at DSCC and “get to do stuff with tech every day.”
“I really enjoy getting to help people and maybe teaching them a little bit about how the computer works. It’s just really satisfying for me,” Zack added.
Zack also appreciates how DSCC supports his continued growth and professional development. He’s currently pursuing his master’s degree in Management Information Systems.
Zack says he’s proud to play a role in supporting DSCC participants and their families.
“Knowing what DSCC does…even if you’re having a rough day professionally, that really puts everything in perspective,” Zack said. “I don’t know what else somebody could ask for in a job. We get to help people every day.”
Learn more about Zack and his impact on DSCC in this short video:
DSCC staff nominated a total of 11 of their colleagues for this year’s Award of Merit. As the winner, Zack will receive a memento, a $2,500 award and recognition from the Executive Director.
Congratulations to all of our outstanding 2025 DSCC Award of Merit Nominees:
- Shanna Berg, Customer Service Specialist
- Deanna Deleshe, Core Regional Manager
- Cheryl Golliher, Core Care Coordinator
- Rebecca Grzeslo, Core Program Coordinator Assistant
- Andrea Hoskinson, Assistant Director of Operations Finance, Accounting, and Procurement
- Darlene Jones, Home Care Quality Improvement Specialist
- Beth Niemerg, Core Care Coordinator
- Haley Phelps, Interim Relief Program Manager
- Tiffany Riddle, Core Enrollment Specialist
- Rita Storck, HC Care Coordinator
See photos of the 2025 nominees in our 2025 Award of Merit luncheon photo album on Facebook.
Create Holiday Magic with Inclusive Fun for Everyone!
Celebrate the holidays with our list of inclusive, sensory-friendly events happening across Illinois.
The holiday season is a time for joy, connection and shared traditions. For individuals with sensory sensitivities, medical complexities and other disabilities, typical celebrations may not always feel comfortable or accessible.
Every family deserves the chance to enjoy the season in ways that support their children and loved ones’ needs and allow for meaningful moments together.
We’ve gathered a list of inclusive and sensory-friendly holiday events happening throughout Illinois. These activities can help you experience the magic of the season at a pace and environment that works best for your family.
There are sensitive Santa opportunities, Mr. and Mrs. Deaf Claus, light displays, low-sensory celebrations, accessible theater performances and other welcoming events for children and adults with special healthcare needs.
You can check out our Special Events page for the full roundup of activities. Just like Santa’s list, be sure to check it at least twice as we continue to add events!
Please note that the University of Illinois Chicago’s Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) is not involved in the organization or scheduling of these holiday events. If you have questions about a specific event, please contact the event sponsor or organizer.
Featured Events
- The Secret Sleigh Project coordinates volunteers to provide in-home Santa visits to children who are medically fragile nationwide. See our Secret Sleigh event listing for more details on how to request a visit.
- Autism Speaks and Cherry Hill Programs will provide free sensory-friendly Santa experiences at multiple shopping centers in Illinois on Dec. 7. You must sign up to attend. Photo packages will be available to buy.
See our Santa Cares listing for more details. Be sure to select “Santa Cares”, “Caring Santa”, or “Sensitive Santa” when checking your location. Event dates and times may vary. Please check your mall location to confirm your date and time.
- Enjoy a movie on the big screen with the lights up, lower sound and the freedom to get up, dance, walk, shout or sing. Visit the following sites to find more details and a theater near you:
- Looking for holiday light displays to walk, wheel, or drive through? Maybe a parade, cookie walk or festival is more your style? Check out the websites and listings below to help plan your holiday adventures (note that some events may not be sensory-friendly):
Chicago and Northern Illinois
Check out WTTW’s list of holiday light displays and experiences. Kidlist also offers a huge list of Chicagoland drive-through and walk-through displays to help you get into the holiday spirit.
Other Chicagoland sensory-friendly activities include:
- Sensory-Friendly ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo and Sensory-Friendly Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
- Special Kids Day Visit With Santa in Elmhurst
- Sensory-Friendly Holiday Express at Blackberry Farm in Aurora
- Breakfast with Mr. and Mrs. Deaf Santa Claus for Children With Hearing Loss in Chicago/ Desayuno con el Sr. y la Sra. Santa Claus Sordos
- “Abilities Team Winter Party” in Plainfield
- “Photos with Santa” for Children With Autism and Developmental Disabilities in Machesney Park
- Sensory-Friendly Winter Lights at Central Park in Oak Brook
- Winter Wonderland Celebration at the DSCC Mokena Regional Office
Central Illinois
Inclusive holiday parties are happening in central Illinois, such as:
- Cookies at the Clearinghouse/Evento Anual de Galletas en el Clearinghouse in Champaign
- Sensory Hour Sweets With Santa in Monticello
- “Special Time With Santa” in Taylorville
- Inclusive Holiday Dance in Springfield
- Lincoln Land Down Syndrome Society Christmas Party in Springfield
For more ideas, check out Chambanamoms.com’s roundup of holiday season fun for families and Visit Springfield.
Southern Illinois
There are many hometown holiday parades, concerts and festivals throughout the area. You can check Southern Illinois Families (SI Families) and Southernmost Illinois for lists of events.
Inclusive activities include:
- Sensitive Santa Event for Children With Autism and Other Sensory Differences in Marion
- St. Louis Zoo Wild Lights Sensory-Friendly Night
- Christmas Open House with Santa in Benton
- Santa at the Center in Effingham
- “Milk and Cookies with Santa” for All Ages and Abilities in St. Louis – Chesterfield
Have an Event to Share?
If you know of an inclusive or sensory-friendly event to include in our list, please email us at dscc@uic.edu.
Resources to Recharge
The hustle of the holiday season can feel overwhelming.
There are resources available if you need to step back and take a deep breath.
You can search our website for support groups and helpful webinars. On Dec. 11, the “How to Keep from Kicking Santa Claus – Tips for Managing Holiday Stress” webinar will feature practical tips for relieving stress, preventing meltdowns and strategies for creating your own fun.
Our Caregiver Mental Health Toolkit is also a great resource during the holidays and beyond.
Happy Holidays!
DSCC is on Instagram!
Join us as we grow our online community to share resources, family stories and more.
The Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) is now on Instagram!
Follow @UICDSCC to stay connected and find:
- Helpful resources and tips for navigating care and services
- Family stories that celebrate our participants’ strength and unique experiences
- Upcoming events and learning opportunities
- Encouragement and inspiration from families and DSCC team members across the state
Our Instagram page is another way we’re working to keep you informed, supported and connected to the information and resources you need.
We can’t wait to see you there!
Webinar Series to Help Families, Caregivers and Youth Navigate the Transition to Adulthood
Learn practical strategies and tools to plan for the transition to adulthood during our free two-part series
Families can face new challenges and shifting roles as young people move toward adulthood.
Join the Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) to learn more about navigating this journey during our free “Preparing for Adulthood: A Roadmap for the Future” webinar series.
The two-part series will feature Claire Cook, DSCC Title V Transition Specialist, and Suzanne Aaron, Northern Illinois Outreach Specialist for Illinois Life Span.
The sessions will cover:
- “Session One: Navigating Adult Systems,” June 26 at 6 p.m.
This session is for youth ages 12 to 15 and their families. Families with children at other developmental stages are also welcome to attend.
This session will provide practical tools for exploring and understanding adult systems, such as health care, education, employment and more. It will also cover strategies for balancing independence and guidance as family roles evolve.
- “Session Two: Empowering Parents and Caregivers,” July 31 at 6 p.m.
Session two is for parents, caregivers and families of youth ages 16 and older with complex needs and/or disabilities.
Building on session one, participants will dive deeper into adult guardianship, health insurance, benefits and programs for youth with complex needs. The session will focus on creating meaningful daily routines while managing evolving family dynamics. It will also explore the role of support circles and how to make decisions that support youth and caregivers in the long run.
- “Primera sesión: Recorrer los sistemas de los adultos,” 26 de junio a las 6 p. m.
Esta sesión es para padres, cuidadores, familias y jóvenes de 12 a 15 años. Las familias de jóvenes en otras etapas de desarrollo también son bienvenidas.
- “Segunda sesión: Empoderar a los padres y cuidadores,” 31 de julio a las 6 p.m.
Según la primera sesión, este seminario web se centrará en tutela de adultos, seguro médico, beneficios y programas para jóvenes con necesidades complejas, crear rutinas diarias importantes mientras se maneja la dinámica familiar en evolución y la función de los círculos de apoyo y cómo tomar decisiones que apoyen a los jóvenes y a los cuidadores a largo plazo. Esta sesión ofrecerá a las familias conocimientos y estrategias adaptadas a sus retos únicos.
Each presentation will be in English. Live Spanish interpretation will be available.
The recordings and slides for both sessions will be available on our Family Education Webinars page.
If you have questions about the series, please contact Claire Cook at clairer3@uic.edu or (800) 322-3722.
Please spread the word and plan to join us!
Share Your Input and Connect at Our Family Advisory Council Open Forum on May 8
We invite all Illinois families of children with special healthcare needs to share their feedback and experiences at this virtual forum.
Join us for an opportunity to connect with other families and share your feedback on topics that matter to you.
Our next Family Advisory Council (FAC) open forum is on May 8 from 9 to 11 a.m.
This free virtual meeting is for all Illinois families of children with special healthcare needs. You do not have to be a Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) participant to attend.
You can sign up on Zoom to join the meeting. Please note that live Spanish translation will be available during the open forum.
The FAC guides our efforts to strengthen teamwork, improve communication and empower families to have a voice in their children’s care. The council also connects families to resources and other families who are on a similar journey.
Our FAC has also played an important role in developing:
- Our DSCC Family Portal to help families more easily communicate and share information with their DSCC care coordination team
- NurseNet, a digital platform that connects Illinois families needing nursing care with local home health agencies
- “All About Me” Page templates to help providers, care coordination teams, schools and other caregivers understand the likes, strengths and needs of each child beyond their medical diagnosis
- Our free, virtual Health Insurance Education Series to help families navigate the insurance maze and better understand their coverage and benefits
- Improvements to our family survey process, including reducing the number of surveys that families receive
- Updates to our online Resource Directory and more
You can find the minutes from past meetings and more details on our website’s Family Advisory Council page.
You can also visit our Family Stories page to learn about some of the family members who serve on the council:
If you have questions or would like more details on how to participate in the FAC, please email dsccfac@uic.edu.
We hope to see you on May 8!
Get Hopping to Sensory-Friendly Bunny Visits and Egg Hunts in April
Enjoy inclusive egg hunts, time with the Easter Bunny and lots of family fun at sites across Illinois
Wondering where the Easter Bunny will hop next?
Check out our Special Events page to find sensory-friendly Easter Bunny visits and egg hunt options for individuals with disabilities of all ages.
The Bunny Cares program offers Easter Bunny visits in a calmer, quieter environment that supports visitors’ sensory, physical and developmental needs. Autism Speaks and Cherry Hill Programs have teamed up to provide these special Bunny Cares photo opportunities.
Bunny Cares events are scheduled at several malls in Illinois on Sunday, April 6.
Click on the locations below to learn more and book your free sensory bunny visit (be sure to search the event schedule for “Bunny Cares,” “Caring Bunny” or “Sensory Bunny” for each location):
Photos will be available to buy at each event. Reservations are limited. Visit the Bunny Cares website for more details and a complete list of sites.
There are more “eggs-cellent” opportunities to meet the Easter Bunny and hunt for eggs throughout Illinois.
If you’re located in the west and northwest suburbs, check out Kidlist for Easter egg hunts and more.
We’ve also highlighted a variety of egg hunts and bunny visits happening in communities across the state. These events include:
- Bunny Hop Breakfast for People with Disabilities and Their Families in Schaumburg on April 5 from 9 to 10:30 a.m.
- Sensory-Friendly Easter Bunny Event in Springfield on April 5 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- The Dr. Patchett Extra Special Eggstravaganza in Carterville on April 5 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Inclusive “Easter Egg Hunt Miracle Mile” Event in Rockford on April 6 from 2 to 4 p.m.
- Sensory Egg Hunt for Children With Disabilities in Champaign on April 12 from 1 to 3:15 p.m.
Our Special Events page has more opportunities for finding colorful eggs, having fun and celebrating spring.
Many of the events are free. You can use the contact and registration information provided with each event listing to learn more.
Please note that the Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) does not sponsor or organize these events. We are sharing the details to help families find inclusive events in their communities.
Inclusive Camps for All Ages Offer Fun, Friendships and New Adventures!
Check out our summer camp list to explore opportunities and find the right fit for your camper
Does your child want to make new friends? Develop new skills? Meet others with their condition or become more independent?
Head to our 2025 summer camp list. You’ll find accessible day, overnight and family camps across Illinois and beyond.
These programs welcome campers with a wide range of needs, abilities and many of our Core Program’s eligible medical conditions. The camps also cater to a wide range of interests, including:
- Learning to program and other computer skills
- Building independence and self-advocacy skills
- Exploring the great outdoors
- Cooking, art, drama and more
If you’re looking for the perfect camp opportunity, there are several ways to search on our website:
- Use the search box and filter option on our Events page to search for camps and other related keywords and locations
- View our 2025 summer camp list
- Use our Events Calendar view
Our list continues to grow, so check back often!
PLEASE NOTE: we share these opportunities for information purposes only. The Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) does not manage or coordinate these camp opportunities or programs. If you have questions about a specific camp, please use the contact number or website we list for each program.
If you know of any summer camp opportunities we should add, please send us the details at dscc@uic.edu.
Here’s to a fantastic summer filled with smiles and new experiences!