Sunset Point Camp Partners with South Shore Special Needs Athletic Partnership for Unforgettable Buddy Week

For more than a century, Catholic Charities Boston’s Sunset Point Camp (SPC) in Hull has provided youth with lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories. At the heart of the camp’s mission is a simple yet powerful belief: every child deserves the chance to just be a kid and to experience the joy of summer in a safe, fun environment. 

For the past 10 years, Sunset Point Camp has proudly partnered with the South Shore Special Needs Athletic Partnership (SNAP) to ensure that children with cognitive and physical disabilities have the opportunity to experience the unique magic of SPC as well. 

Every summer during the last week of camp, known as “Buddy Week,” SNAP participants are paired with selected campers who have demonstrated leadership, self-awareness, and empathy.  

“It’s so heartwarming to witness the close friendships the kids form with each other during Buddy Week every year,” said Ivana Correia-Veiga, Catholic Charities Boston’s Director of Summer Camps & Teen Programs. “They all learn from each other.” 

Nathalie English, whose 13-year-old son Sebastien joined SNAP three years ago, said Sunset Point Camp has become a cherished tradition that Sebastien looks forward to every summer. Diagnosed at an early age with a rare genetic disorder called Hunter Syndrome, Nathalie said her son often struggled to find his place in traditional athletic and recreational programs which catered almost exclusively to neurotypical children.  

“Before we had a diagnosis, we tried signing him up for soccer,” she said. “They told us they couldn’t accommodate his needs. It was heartbreaking as a parent to witness.”  

Shortly after Nathalie and her family moved to Hingham, they learned about SNAP. Right away, she said the program felt like a breath of fresh air. 

“What’s so special about SNAP and the camp is that they’re truly adaptive,” she said. “They meet the kids where they are, and they offer the support needed for them to participate, connect with others, and have fun.” 

From swimming in the pool, playing catch, and riding the carousel, to the excitement of Treasure Night – a weekly camp tradition where kids have the opportunity to win exciting prizes – Nathalie said Sebastien has not only grown his confidence but also formed memories he’ll cherish forever.  

Barbara Devico, whose 15-year-old daughter has attended Buddy Week for the past four years – and is great friends with Sebastien  – said she is continually amazed by the attentiveness the camp staff have demonstrated toward her daughter Maya, who was born with a rare genetic mutation called IQSEC2. 

“Having worked as a special education teacher for over 30 years, and having a child with special needs, I can confidently say the staff are amazing and handle every situation with grace,” said Barbara. 

Each morning, when Barbara drops Maya off at camp, she says her “buddy” and assigned camp counselor are waiting by the gate for her with a smile. Throughout the day, if Maya faces any health concerns or moments of stress, Barbara said the staff stay in close communication, ensuring she and her husband feel informed and supported. 

“The communication is amazing,” she said. “They always answer questions and keep me posted. We won’t send her any place other than Sunset Point Camp.” 

The magic of Sunset Point Camp wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of volunteers, donors, and community partners who come together each year to ensure every child feels supported, included, and celebrated. 

Yvette Kanter, a longtime supporter who has been volunteering and fundraising with the Friends of Sunset Point Camp for over 15 years, said it’s deeply moving to witness what can happen when organizations like SNAP and SPC unite around a shared purpose. 

“I’m involved in both organizations, and I love seeing nonprofits support each other and collaborate,” she said. “Sunset Point Camp is such a special place. The joy on the kids’ faces says it all.” 

As a Friend of SPC, Yvette says she’s especially grateful for the community members who have stepped up over the years to support the camp, during Buddy Week and all summer long. Whether it’s making a gift to SPC, donating toys, volunteering during Treasure Night, or simply sharing the story of the camp, Yvette believes every gesture makes a difference. Personally, she is motivated by her deep faith and a firm belief that we each are called to served others. 

“As Catholics, it’s our responsibility to walk alongside our brothers and sisters, and to give back however we can,” said Yvette. “Sunset Point Camp brings that mission to life. And we want as many children as possible to experience its joy.” 

To learn more about Catholic Charities Boston’s Sunset Point Camp, click here. To find out how you can support Catholic Charities Boston, visit our Ways to Give page.