Special Education Foundation

Give STL Day: Supporting Kids. Strengthening Families.

When school doors close for summer or academic breaks, many students with disabilities lose more than just classroom time—they lose daily structure, social interaction, and opportunities to continue building critical life skills. For families already navigating the challenges of special education, these gaps can be overwhelming. Plus, camp tuition continues to rise, placing enriching summer experiences out of reach for many families. 

Why Camp Matters & Supports the Whole Family 

The Special Education Foundation's (SEF) Kid-to-Camp program provides vital support for parents and their children. Camp offers families a safe, structured place for their child to thrive while parents maintain their work schedules, manage household responsibilities, and have time to recharge and care for themselves. 

For many families, camp is the difference between a stressful academic break and one filled with growth, stability, and opportunity.

For students served by the Special School District, camp is not simply a recreational activity—it is an essential extension of their growth and development. Through SEF's Kid-to-Camp program, students gain:

• Meaningful social interaction and friendship-building

• Opportunities to practice communication and teamwork

• Increased confidence and independence

• Continued learning through structured activities

• Exposure to new experiences and interests

• Development of physical skills and outdoor exploration

On this Give STL Day, we’re asking for your help.

Our goal is simple but powerful: to support the families who need it most—those who would otherwise be unable to provide their child with the enriching experiences camp provides. With your help, we can provide life-changing camp experiences for students who deserve the chance to explore, connect, and grow. 

Your Give STL Day gift can help send a student to camp, open the door to new friendships, and create memories that last a lifetime.

One day. One gift. A lifetime of memories. 

Join us this Give STL Day and help ensure every child has the chance to experience the joy, confidence, and independence that camp provides.

The Foundation relies solely on private donations for support. The Foundation also helps students by:

• Providing Scholarships for college-bound students

• Providing hearing aids for children with audiology needs and specialized equipment for children with physical disabilities

• Providing Student Aid Funds for Emergencies for timely support that can threaten a student’s ability to attend school, participate fully, or progress toward their goals

• Supporting educators' innovative projects to enhance student learning

• Leadership Academy for high school students who seek to develop their leadership & interpersonal skills

• Bringing arts, music, and theater performances into the Special School District schools

• Support special projects identified by the principals of Special School District schools