Finding Belonging
His job title may not have been ‘hero,’ but that’s certainly what Vaughn Beezley was to rising 2nd grader Bradley Polikov. Paired one-on-one within various groups over the summer by the Marcus JCC of Atlanta, Vaughn was Bradley’s facilitator through the Blonder Family Department for Special Needs Inclusion Program at MJCCA Day Camps.
Vaughn is a high school senior whose brother is on the autism spectrum, and he often volunteers with peers who have disabilities. He has been a constant advocate, pal, and inspiration to Bradley, who has a dual diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. “Bradley thinks Vaughn hung the moon,” shares Bradley’s mother, Carla. “He found a role model and a mentor. It was a match made in heaven.”
Bradley had been historically unhappy at other day camps, as many were not equipped to handle his specific needs. “We didn’t want him sitting home all summer, but it was hard to find programs that were a good fit,” Carla explains. “Bradley is very social and bright but struggles with coping skills and needs a little extra attention.” Coupled with Vaughn’s kind support, the Marcus JCC’s thorough intake, preparedness, and accommodations opened a new world to Bradley. Carla recalls that her son admired and listened to Vaughn, who would share his snacks and encourage Bradley to be open to unfamiliar experiences. Before long, Bradley was eating potato chips and s’mores and participating in rock climbing, ga-ga, and so much more. “He tried a lot that he never would have on his own,” she admits. “Vaughn diffused situations and always had Bradley’s back. All day, every day, Vaughn made him feel special and loved. He was like a big brother, a cool older figure. Bradley was excited to go to camp each day.”
Bradley and Vaughn’s relationship has transcended camp, from frequent FaceTime calls to an invitation for Vaughn to attend Bradley’s birthday party. “I think I was integral by being a ‘big brother’ who was super patient and took time to understand what works to help him and what doesn’t,” Vaughn reflects. “Bradley’s relationship with me made me realize how much of an impact I’ve had on his life and how much he looks up to me. It also impacted my life and helped me understand and help my brother more.”
MJCCA Day Camps has been completely life changing for Bradley. Carla expresses that the Marcus JCC instilled confidence, fostered a sense of belonging, taught him flexibility, and empowered him throughout the summer. “Nobody knows he has a disability,” Carla declares. “He isn’t singled out. He doesn’t get in trouble for not conforming. He doesn’t have to be in a ‘special needs’ camp. This showed us he can be successful in a full-day camp experience that fosters independence. It allowed us to go to work without anxiety, knowing he was in a safe, fun, and nurturing environment. Now he has something to really look forward to in the summer.”
This showed us he can be successful in a full-day camp experience that fosters independence.