Camp Yakety Yak

Mission

Camp Yakety Yak (CYY) helps children experiencing physical, intellectual and developmental disabilities (e.g., autism, ADHD), grow socially and emotionally by improving their communication skills. CYY's educational mission is two-fold:

1) Provide instruction in social-emotional skills to children experiencing disabilities and their siblings to support communication and friendship development in a day camp setting.

2) Provide an opportunity for future professionals in educational and therapeutic fields to gain knowledge and hands-on experience.

Bottom Line for Portland

CYY is one of the few organizations in the Pacific Northwest offering a specialized summer day camp for youth experiencing a wide range of disabilities. 

Youth experiencing disabilities are often excluded from education and enrichment programs due to high needs, lack of specialized support, and funding. CYY uses a reverse inclusion model where programs are designed for youth experiencing disabilities, and their typically developing siblings are welcome to join in the fun! 

By teaming up with local universities and schools, CYY also provides a strong foundation for future educators and therapeutic professionals while raising awareness about youth experiencing disabilities.

Quote

“As a developmental psychologist and mother to neurodivergent children, I can attest that I have never seen or experienced a program quite like Camp Yakety Yak. CYY feels like a warm hug every day, and we consider it one of the greatest blessings in our lives.”

Amanda Leeder, PhD 

Incentives

The Autism Spectrum Disorders Foundation (ASDF) is matching donations dollar-for-dollar up to $8,000 for donors up to age 35, with your contributions and their match directly funding needs-based camp scholarships!! 

Partner(s)

ASDF supports children with autism spectrum disorder by providing information, education, and financial assistance to their families and relevant community service organizations.