Joy & Belonging: The Magic of ESP Summer Camp and Community Connection
Lenora Sandow lived her best mermaid life at ESP Savannah’s inaugural summer camp this June! Her parents, Claire and Lee, cherished the steady stream of photos from ESP staff, each one capturing Lenora diving into a new activity with her buddy. Focused attention from a buddy during all ESP activities is just one of the ways that ESP makes sure each person feels a sense of welcome and belonging. “ESP staff and volunteers are all in to make everything fun for everyone. There are no half measures,” Lee laughed, recalling the moment Lenora dumped an entire jar of glitter over a volunteer’s head.
"ESP staff and volunteers are all in to make everything fun for everyone. There are no half measures"
Beyond summer camp, five-year-old Lenora has found joy in monthly family dinners and club events and her parents have found something just as meaningful: a community where they feel understood and supported. “Just having a meal with other caretakers who get it is so helpful,” they shared.
As they look ahead to 2026, Claire, Lee, and Lenora are looking forward to ESP by the Sea, an unforgettable beach trip that brings accessibility, respite, and joy. For families like the Sandows, vacations can create logistical challenges with spaces that aren’t built with Lenora in mind. This year will be different. With the support of ESP staff and volunteers and a setting designed so people of all abilities can experience the ocean up close, Lenora’s mermaid era will enter its next phase.
The magic of ESP—connection, belonging, and the freedom to live life to the fullest—is made possible by generous support from donors throughout the year. Our Big Hearts season celebrates that magic through the Talent Shows held in each community and The Gala, raising the vital funds that sustain our mission. You can be part of this story by attending or volunteering at a Talent Show on February 7 or joining us at the Big Hearts Gala on February 14.
For more information about Big Hearts, follow this link.
