Joy, Growth, and Giving at The Special Children’s Center
This summer, something extraordinary is unfolding at The Special Children’s Center Deal Camp, and it’s all happening at our breathtaking new Center Farm. Just 20 minutes from Deal, this 30-acre oasis has become a place of healing, discovery, and joy.
At the Center, we’ve always believed in going above and beyond for our children. This summer, with the help of our devoted hosts and an unbelievably supportive community, we’ve taken that dream to a whole new level.
A Place to Grow, A Place to Shine
The Center Farm is simply transformational. From the moment you arrive, you can feel the calm in the air and the excitement on the kids’ faces. With wide open spaces and animal friends at every turn, it’s the kind of place where kids can be free to explore, to express themselves, and to just be.
Animal care has become a daily delight. Whether it’s brushing ponies, feeding chickens, or cuddling soft, snuggly bunnies, these gentle, hands-on moments have sparked something special in our campers. And of course, there’s horseback riding. Each ride is a moment of confidence and connection, where kids feel strong, steady, and in control.
An extra special highlight is the gourmet breakfast prepared daily by our very own Chef David. It’s a truly delicious start to each incredible day.
The Power of People
But what truly makes the magic happen? Our unbelievable counselors. These incredible young women show up every day with energy, warmth, and love that knows no limits. They’re all in. Whether they’re helping a child navigate a new experience or bursting into spontaneous dance parties, they bring joy and security to every corner of the farm.
They’re not just staff, they’re family. And our campers feel it.
A Community That Cares
None of this would be possible without the amazing community that surrounds us. Our devoted hosts have opened their hearts and homes to our children, welcoming them with warm smiles, fun, and love. Their kindness overwhelms us every single day.
From the families who give us their daughters to be our devoted counselors, to the donors who go above and beyond to make dreams come true, you are all part of this mission. This community doesn’t just support us, it walks with us every single day. You believe in our kids, and together we create the magic they deserve.
Summer Smiles, Center Style
Sunshine, Support, And So Much Love
Annual Breakfast
Our annual breakfast, hosted by Kim and Amin Cayre, was a day to experience. It was a morning of togetherness, support, and shared purpose. We have no words to thank our hosts who went above and beyond to make our breakfast the wonderful experience that it was. Richie Dweck opened the morning as always with his words, “There’s no place that does what the Center does, for the kids and for the parents.” He then welcomed Harry Adjmi, whose heart and soul have been behind the Center day in and day out, helping make it the extraordinary place it is.
A special Tallit was presented to Richie, Harry, Elliot Tawil, Elliot Tamir, and Amin, embroidered with the names of all the hostages. Then Yaakov took the stage and sang his moving song, dedicated to those who lost their lives al kiddush Hashem. As Yaakov’s voice filled the air, everyone stood united, coming together to make dreams come true. To everyone who invested so much effort to make the breakfast happen, especially Harry Adjjmi, Richie Dweck, and Elliot Tawil, and Lydia Cohen who together with her amazing mom Norma makes the breakfast the incredible experience it is. And to every single person who came, participated, and gave from the heart, it means so much to have you with us.
The Special Ride
The Special Ride was a real highlight this year! The Ride is the stunning brainchild of Sam Sutton and his beautiful family, created in honor of their very special son and brother, Robbie. With endless dedication, Mike Sutton, Elliot Tawil, Dan Rusinowitz, and Lawrence Pahuskin worked hand-in-hand all year long to make this year’s Ride the incredible success it was. Over 100 riders came together to raise vital funds, and to have an amazing time doing it. Huge thanks to our amazing riders for making the ride such a special success, and a special thank you to CO Dessler for making the logistics and safety look effortless.
Giving Children Wings
Everything we do, every acre of the farm, every moment of programming, every smile from a counselor, is about giving our children wings. At the Center Deal Camp Farm, they are not defined by their challenges; they are lifted by love, laughter, and limitless potential.
And it doesn’t stop at summer. The Center provides services to over 1,000 children all year long, offering a full range of programming designed to meet every need we can think of. From our after-school program, to Center Respite House, to Between Camp, legal holiday programs, and more, we’re here to make life with a special needs child not only manageable, but beautiful.
Each day at the Special Children Center, whether it’s at camp on the farm or in our building, reminds us again and again: when children are given the right environment, the right support, and unconditional love, they soar.
This summer, they are flying high at Center Deal Camp. And we are all better for it.
Reach out today to find out how you can get involved. Email chaya@thecenternj.org or call (732) 367-0099.
