In 1982 my mother, a school psychologist told me she would be taking over the direction of the summer camp serving children with autism in High Falls, NY; Camp Huntington. I was 15 years old back then. And I was frightened at the thought of living that summer with people with disabilities. My mom explained to me that I would not be working directly with the campers. Which made me feel safer. Of course, as life would have it, one of the counselors didn't show up and I was asked to help out in one of the camper groups of teenage boys with Autism. This was the first time that I heard the word autism. I had no idea what autism was. I dove right in to helping my co-counselor with six campers and all of their daily needs and activities. Each camper had an amazing and rich personality. I was fascinated by how interesting, energetic, smart, creative and playful they all were. And while they clearly had their moods and desires to be left alone at times to do their own thing, they clearly had an emotional connection with me that made me curious and connected to them. They were different than me but also very much the same. I loved working with those campers that summer and I cherish every memory! I've remained at that same program for the last 31 years, and as life would have it, an interesting turn of events last November 2012 I was able to purchase the program and am now the new owner. It's an honor to continue to guide this very special program forward and to do as much as we can to serve the needs of our campers; to give them dignity and a fun playful environment that is safe and motivating so they can continue to have incredible summers. Come visit us to see some real magic! Www.camphuntington.com.

Daniel Falk
High Falls, NY