Green Creek Adventures is dedicated to service. One of the ways that we love to serve our customers is geared to families who have been affected by developmental disorders. The following is information on the Autism Spectrum from Autism Speaks:
What is Autism?
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD). The other pervasive developmental disorders are PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not
Otherwise Specified), Asperger's Syndrome, Rett Syndrome and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. Many parents and professionals refer to this group as Autism Spectrum Disorders.
How common is Autism?
Today, it is estimated that one in every 110 children is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. An estimated 1.5 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide are affected by autism. Government statistics suggest the prevalence rate of autism is increasing 10-17 percent annually. There is not established explanation for this increase, although improved diagnosis and environmental influences are two reasons often considered. Studies suggest boys are more likely than girls to develop autism and receive the diagnosis three to four times more frequently. Current estimates are that in the United States alone, one out of 70 boys is diagnosed with autism.
Now, we know what you're thinking; Children with autism and rock climbing? Seems like a bad idea... It takes a fair amount of trust and confidence but we have seen the positive results of bringing children with autism and their families into the wilderness to experience the same calming release of emotion that keeps us coming back again and again. Our team is comprised of outdoor professionals and experienced behavioral therapists who love working with children who have been affected by developmental disorders as much as they love the outdoors. All of our employees have had direct hands on backgrounds working with children with Autism, Down's syndrome and many other developmental disorders.
Our special needs programs are generally easier day hikes, surfing instruction and rock climbing depending on the strengths of the child. Again, we always cater to you so if you have something in mind please email us. We try our hardest to offset the cost of these trips for these families by accepting donation and by allotting income from our typical adventures so the cost for a family with a child with a developmental disorder is very small. We love to see a special family bond and grow together and there are great benefits to bringing these children and their families together in an environment that's beauty is rarely seen and experienced.
