Programs
CENTER RIDGE OUTPOST NEWS
TEAAM continues the construction of The Center Ridge Outpost. This is one of our long time dreams, and the camp is dedicated to conducting our camps and adventure-based programs. It is located in Center Ridge, Mississippi in Smith County. This site's location is central to all Mississippians. Though adventurers and campers come from all over the United States to participate in this one of a kind program, TEAAM's focus remains clearly set on supporting Mississippians and their families as a priority.
The Center Ridge Outpost helps to fulfill the overall mission of TEAAM by providing inclusive adventure-based programs that provide supports for individuals on the autism spectrum, their friends and their families. These programs provide fun, socialization, and respite in a safe, accepting and understanding environment. The programs that are offered through The Center Ridge Outpost are one-of-a-kind inclusive programs for individuals on the autism spectrum. Nowhere else in the United States are there programs with the same unique design and success of our programs.
The services that are provided through The Center Ridge Outpost represent a unique approach to providing needed services while creating new opportunities for individuals with and without autism spectrum disorders and related developmental disabilities. As mentioned, The CRO Base Camp is located in the rural setting of Center Ridge in Smith County, Mississippi. This setting gives the program many advantages that may go unnoticed by the typical observer. The location provides the rustic, rural setting that makes these types of programs work in the manner they are designed. All programs and events are supervised under individuals trained by Dr. Mark H. Yeager. This includes TEAAM staff as well as high school and university student volunteers. Our volunteer to camper/adventurer ratio is typically maintained at no less than 1 to 2. In some programs a higher ratio is used due to skill level of the campers/adventurers. Featured programs include:
SUMMER PROGRAMS
KAMP KALEIDOSCOPE ~Summer Camp sessions for youth on the autism spectrum and their neuro-typical peers ages 7 to 17. Designed to meet the challenging needs of this group while having camp fun.
CAMP WALAPEI ~Summer Camp sessions for adults on the autism spectrum, ages 18 and up. Designed to be fun in an age appropriate environment. All campers have a mentor work with them during their camp sessions.
BOTH PROGRAMS INVOLVE ACTIVITIES SUCH AS SWIMMING, HIKING, CRAFTS, SPORTS, MUSIC, FISHING, CAMPING, DANCING, AND A LIST OF OTHER ACTIVITIES SPECIFIC TO THE PARTICULAR SESSION. SOCIAL SKILLS TRAINING IS A PART OF EVERY PROGRAM.
WEEKEND PROGRAMS
ARAY (Adventures in Recreation for All Youth) ~Weekend, theme-driven retreats aimed at introducing Adventurers to new skills and friends. Designed for all ages 7 to 18 years of age, each session is tailored with an interest and age group in mind. Adventurers are grouped by age and interest.
ADVENTURES WITHOUT BOUNDARIES ~Weekend, theme-driven retreats that are much like the ARAY programs except with an adult focus. Designed for ages 18 and up, each session is developed to not only address areas of interest but to facilitate new interests.
IN SOME CASES THE PROGRAMS ARE OUTWARD BOUND IN DESIGN. THIS MEANS THE ADVENTURERS WILL LEAVE THE CENTER RIDGE OUTPOST TO GO ON AN ADVENTURE IN THE COMMUNITY. ALL PROGRAMS FOCUS ON SOCIALIZATION FROM AN ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING PERSPECTIVE.
FAMILY TRAINING RETREATS ~These programs provide much needed training and planning for parents who have a newly diagnosed child.
THE CENTER RIDGE OUTPOST OFFERS
MANY UNIQUE FACILITIES:
The TEAAM Center
~The TEAAM Center will house the TEAAM statewide offices, The Mess Hall and kitchen and camp store. It will serve as the indoor general meeting space for events at the camp. The TEAAM Center will also house the family support center, which will host training and family strategy development sessions. This building is scheduled to be completed by Summer 2012.
The Old West Bunkhouses
~One of the sleeping quarters consist of three Old West style bunkhouses. Each Bunkhouse will accommodate 11 campers/adventurers along with their crew member. Each Bunkhouse is equipped with bathrooms, showers and bunks. Each camper/adventurer will have a personal space to organize their personal gear. A lengthy front porch will set off the Bunkhouse with a selection of rocking chairs and swings. The Old West Bunkhouses can host groups up to 33 people.
The Bunk Barn
~Ever dream of sleeping in a barn? Maybe not but if you have then the Bunk Barn is for you. Designed like an old fashion livery stable barn, this bunkhouse will host 24 people. The Bunk Barn even has a loft room. Of course, bathrooms, showers and bunks make it not-so-barn-like inside. This building is scheduled to be completed by Summer 2012.
The Eagles Nest Pavilion
~The Eagles Nest Pavilion is the main outdoor assembly area for the Outpost programs. This large building is a 30'X40' open air pole structure. Located on one end is the outdoor kitchen and the Camp Trading post. This is where all cookouts are held and where guests come to visit our Trading Post for snacks. The Eagles Nest contains picnic tables for gatherings and other projects.
The Outpost Lookout
~The Outpost Lookout is the current camp office and TEAAM headquarters. As the Outpost develops these offices will be moved to the TEAAM Center. At that time The Outpost Lookout will become a classroom/meeting space. The First Aid station is also located in this building housing our nurses and medics.
The Lantern Amphitheater
~The Lantern Amphitheater is a place of many purposes. It serves as a Chapel, an Outdoor Classroom, and an Outdoor Performing Arts Center. Many guests need a place to pray or meditate in private. Others are looking for a place to express themselves creatively. Still others want to learn. The Lantern is the place for all to gather and to celebrate their faith, their interest and their need for expression.
Campfire Ring
~No camp is complete without a campfire ring as the central point for gatherings. This is the place where campers gather to share songs, stories and even some tall tales. All this not to mention marshmallow and wiener roasts and even a hobo meal every now and then.
The Treehouse Camp
~The Treehouse Camp will consist of two treehouses. Each treehouse will accommodate six people. The treehouses will be a bare-bones yet structurally substantial set of buildings build on stilts. The Treehouses will be connected by a walkway with a ramp access at one point. The Treehouses will be approximately 6 to 8 feet off the ground. Each will have battery-operated lights. The treehouses will have no insulation or HVAC. This program is to provide those interested with a treehouse adventure to long be remembered. This building is scheduled to be completed by Summer 2013.
Nature Trails and Viewing Houses
~Nature trails and viewing houses isone of the highlights of the Outpost. As a part of our Wildlife Management Sanctuary Program, trails lead to an area containing a viewing house. Campers are able to set motion activated cameras over the large feeding plot to catch the "Outpost Critters" during the night. In the cloak of the AM darkness campers make their way to the viewing house to see what the daylight exposes. Then each camera is retrieved in order to examine the photo catch of the night. Pictures are printed and taken home for a camping treasure.
Sports Field
~The sports field is complete with soccer goals, tetherball courts, a basketball court, and inflatable water slides and a kick ball field. This area is the “let yourself go” area to have sporting fun with friends.
RV Camper Sites
RV Camper Sites will be developed to offer services that include power, and water. These sites will offer an option to some families who own a motor home or pull behind camper. This service is scheduled to be completed by Summer 2012.
Pool
Our pool is a large 35 foot above the ground unit pool with a sprinkler tower at the entrance. The pool has both ladder and lift entrance capacities with a entry deck and a lifeguard observation deck
THE CENTER RIDGE OUTPOST HAS MANY EXCITING ACTIVITIES
FOR THE CAMPERS, SUCH AS:
MUSIC
Music, the universal language, has always been a big part of Kamp Kaleidoscope as it will be for other Outpost programs. Not only is it one of the biggest interactive activities, the music program is fine tuned for fun! The music experience is not only therapeutic; it’s an opportunity for many individuals on the spectrum to relate to those around them. It provides them a chance to laugh, yell, and dance while participating in one of the most sensory stimulating events during their stay. Our music program allows all Campers an outlet to express themselves in their own personal way, while experiencing all the joys music has to offer.
ARTS AND CRAFTS
Center Ridge Outpost’s arts and craft program is second to none! From custom leather bracelets to unique craft projects, our art program offers all the benefits of therapeutic recreation by stimulating the mind as well as the hands. There is no better feeling in your heart than holding a one-of-a-kind creation by their loved one.
HORSE RIDING
Horseback riding provides a sensation that is very appealing to individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Our Riding Program uses activities on horseback that are meaningful and memorable to not only our Campers, but many of our Crewmembers as well! Specific riding skills are not taught (as in therapeutic riding), but rather a foundation is established to improve neurological function and sensory processing. Horse riding is another way our programs provide the crossover experience between therapy and fun! Horseback Riding is a popular activity with our campers. With access to over 1700 acres of trails and wooded land there will be no shortage of equestrian adventure. By way of local saddle clubs, campers will venture into the wilderness on horseback to see what they can find.
WATER ACTIVITIES
One of our biggest attractions at our programs is getting wet. This provides one of the single most effective sensory outlets to individuals on the spectrum. Sessions will offer waterslides, sprinklers and misting tunnels to not only cool off but provide a fun time for all. Campers participate with their counselor ensuring continuous interaction while enjoying the cool escape from the summer heat. Not only do these activities provide fun but also serve as an extremely effective cardiovascular activity, and they promotes muscle coordination. We also thoroughly enjoy how much excess energy everyone sheds while laughing and splashing. It tends to help everyone sleep a little better at night!
FISHING
Fishin’…now that’s REAL CAMP FUN! Our fishing program has always been a big hit with everyone at Camp. Making the best use of a well-stocked pond, the Campers are guaranteed to make the catch of their life…big or small! This activity will not only help our Campers fish better, but can give many of them a better understanding of the sport of fishing. Just another way Kamp is expanding to include a wide variety of interests and recreation. An existing fishing pond will be used until Lake Cain can be reclaimed, refilled and restocked. Once complete, Lake Cain will be easily accessible and full of angling excitement.
CAMPFIRE
What’s camping without a Campfire? All the benefits of a controlled environment and all the fun of roasting marshmallows over the open fire! Campers get to participate in an old tradition, singing songs around the fire and enjoying the moonlit night.
DANCES
Dance till you drop is the motto and that’s what we’ll do! With all the feel of a real disco, complete with lights, moving graphics and the best music around, Out Dances are nothing but a Party! Snacks, refreshments, and shakin’ till you just can’t shake anymore, Campers and Crewmembers alike laugh their selves silly and do their best to keep up with the crowd. It’s loud, it’s lively, and it’s sure to wake the forest. Our Camp Dances are second to none!
OUTPOST THEATER
Movies on the big screen! Although not considered a typical camp activity, movie night is one of the most anticipated nights at Camp. Front row seats for everyone to view the Wall-of-Video-Wonder, The Center Ridge Outpost’s very own big screen. So grab your buddy, grab your popcorn, and settle in for a night at the movies.
WILDLIFE WONDERS
The Outpost home to many deer, turkey, fox, raccoons, squirrels, opossums just to name some of the inhabitants. Wildlife programs will include setting wildlife cameras to capture them in their natural habitat as well as early morning live viewings from the safety of viewing houses mounted on 5ft. stands. At the end of each session, each camper will take home pictures of wildlife caught by surprise but on film.
ACTING AND IMAGINATION
The Lantern Amphitheater is the perfect stage for putting on plays, skits and expression oneself. Some sessions will be focused on creating and performing plays and skits that tell an old…..or a new story!
INSECT STUDY
The Outpost is also literally crawling with other residents. Bugs of all types make The Outpost an insect enthusiast wonderland. Sessions focused on insect study will seek out these creepy crawly friends who can teach us so much about the “unseen” forest.
BIRD STUDY
Our feathered friends roam the skies above The Outpost constantly in search of food, nesting and friends. Everything from turkey, owls, crows, hawks, songbirds and the occasional woodpecker call Center Ridge home. Come try your hand at bird watching and see how many we can identify. Though not a bird we are often visited by flying mammals…..bats! The Bird Study programs are a hit with many campers.
REPTILE STUDY
Slithering around The Outpost, our reptile friends move mostly unnoticed. They are there and we can often find their hiding spots. Observed from a distance and respected by all, our snake friends offer The Outpost a great service. Controlling mice and other rodents as well as some of their own, but unfriendly, snake cousins is their specialty. Come and enjoy the star of our reptile show, Thorn, the Chinese Water Dragon. All you have to do is ask Dr. Yeager, “where is Thorn? Can I see him?”
ASTRONOMY
Though most Outpost programs happen during the day one can’t, astronomy. Walk under the stars and identify planets, constellations, and other objects that may go unidentified. With the assistance of Star Walk participants can walk and learn about the sky and its’ secrets. The Outpost provides a wonderful backdrop for millions of stars. Don’t worry; if you can’t name them all…we’ll name one after you!
THE TRADING POST
The Outpost provides treats for many of the activities. Popcorn, sno-cones are just part of the deal. Since we don’t allow snacks and treats in the Bunkhouses The Outpost Trading Post will be the place to get other items. Everything from candy bars to t-shirts can be purchased at the Outpost Trading Post. The Trading Post will be open for all events. You can open an account for your camper upon your arrival.
ARCHERY PROGRAMS
Though the Outpost will not have an Archery Range for general use, we will have Archery programs developed in partnership with the Mississippi Bowhunter Association and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. Learning to shoot a bow and arrow in a safe setting with an amazingly large backdrop will be the thrill of many campers. This is truly an activity of the rustic kind.
TEAAM’s Adventure-Based Program Field Guide
TEAAM’s programmatic focus is to develop and conduct Adventure-Based program opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum and related developmental disabilities of all ages. These programs are designed to provide opportunities that otherwise are not available in the appropriate environment along with their neuro-typical peers. Each program provides experiences that are not only fun but also an opportunity for social learning, engaging a new experience and making friends.
TEAAM makes every attempt to offer these programs at a minimal cost to families. In order to do this your help is needed. TEAAM, as a non-profit organization, conducts numerous fund raising events to help families. Tax deductible monetary donations, both individual and corporate, are most welcomed. TEAAM also welcomes in-kind donations. In order for programs to be conducted in both a fun and safe environment TEAAM includes many volunteers to provide extensive supervision for all participants. This means that funding is needed not just for the participant but for their counselor as well. For in-kind donations, visit our “wish list” for ideas.
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