Aurora’s Summer Camps Spark Joy and Inclusion with Jays Care Programs
This summer, Aurora's recreation team set out to reimagine how sports can inspire inclusion and joy. Through Jays Care Foundation’s flagship programs—Girls At Bat and Challenger Baseball—their summer camps became a canvas for fun, empowerment, and teamwork.
From 4-year-old first-time players to 12-year-olds honing their love of sport, every camper found a place in these programs. Girls At Bat, designed to empower self-identified girls through baseball, brought fun and confidence-building activities to Aurora’s camp. Meanwhile, Challenger Baseball’s inclusive model ensured children of all abilities could step up to the plate.
"Both programs are strong access points into baseball and inclusion in sport, which is already a key principle of ours," said Julie Chambers, a supervisor for the programs in Aurora.
Incorporated as part of larger summer camps, Girls At Bat and Challenger Baseball quickly became highlights of the day. Campers could choose to participate, and many did, drawn by the engaging, dynamic activities. Held at three different sites—two schools and a sports bubble—the programs were flexible and accessible, with supervisors adapting seamlessly to indoor spaces.
"Staff told us the sessions were interactive and fun," Chambers shared. "It also gave supervisors an exciting chance to engage directly in the program, something they don’t always get to do."
Aurora’s success with these programs has sparked plans for expansion. While seasonal staffing poses challenges, the town is determined to refine its approach.
As the programs move forward, one thing is clear: they’ve left a lasting impression on campers and staff alike. "The supervisors had so much fun running these programs," Chambers added. "It’s inspiring to see such strong engagement from everyone involved."
Aurora’s experience demonstrates how Jays Care programs can strengthen communities through the power of sport and inclusion. Are you ready to make a similar impact in your municipality? Partner with Jays Care Foundation to bring Girls At Bat and Challenger Baseball to your community.
