FARMINGTON — The University of Maine at Farmington has announced that it has received a grant from the Autism Society of Maine to help fund scholarships for undergraduate students interested in enrolling in UMF’s advanced psychology summer course and participating as camp counselors in its annual Autism Summer Camp program.

Individuals completing the four-credit course will receive a $500 scholarship to help defray the cost of the course and to recognize the contribution undergraduate students make to the success of the camp.

A joint effort with the Autism Society of Maine, the five-week course runs from July 20 to Aug. 20. It provides undergraduate students with a week of training by professionals in the field prior to the camp experience. This is followed by the opportunity to interact one-on-one in a fun and supportive environment with an adolescent camper for two weeks, then a school-age child for two weeks.

Started in 2002, the camp has served over 200 children with autism, ages five to 15. The camp is held at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall in Farmington and includes traditional camp activities such as swimming, arts and crafts and field trips. The summer camp provides a setting where the children can relax and have fun while also providing professional supervision and an atmosphere that matches the child’s needs.

“This is my fourth year being involved with the Autism Summer Camp program, and I keep coming back because it’s such a worthwhile experience,” said Joel King, UMF professor of psychology.

“It’s the best of both worlds for both campers and students. Children with autism lead very structured lives in order to develop important skills. The summer camp allows them to just relax, make friends and have fun. And the students working as counselors love working with the kids and grow in confidence and skills before my eyes.”

Grant funds were provided to the Autism Society of Maine by the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism in appreciation for the work they do to help those individuals and families living with autism.

FMI: 207-778-7381, joelking@maine.edu.