Camp ASCCA: The Podcast

In this episode of the Camp ASCCA Podcast, we sit down with Camp Director Matt Rickman and his wife, Dana Rickman, Director of Development, to reflect on their 28 years at Camp ASCCA.

They share what Camp has meant to them over the years, their favorite Camp ASCCA memories, and what it's like to work alongside your spouse. They also talk about raising their children at Camp and how this special place has become such an important part of their family's story.

For Matt and Dana, Camp ASCCA is more than a job; it's a place...

Phil Martin, a former Camp ASCCA staff member and aquatics professional, reflects on his time at ASCCA and the unforgettable summers he spent there. Over the years, Phil has carried with him countless memories and experiences that were life-changing, not only for him but for the many people whose lives he touched along the way. Today, he runs The Sailing Center in Macon, Georgia, where his passion for adaptive aquatics continues to make a difference and create opportunities for people of all abilities.

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Davis, a Camp ASCCA camper of 10 years. Over the past decade, Jason has watched Camp ASCCA grow and evolve, but one thing has remained the same: it's a place where he is seen and heard for who he is, not defined by his disability.

We talk about Jason's favorite camp memories, what Camp ASCCA means to him, the relationships he's built over the years, and so much more.

Before Camp ASCCA became the place so many know and love today, there were people who believed in its mission from the very beginning. In this episode, we sit down with Jerry and Cheryl Bynum to reflect on the early days of Camp ASCCA, the challenges and triumphs of building a camp unlike any other, and the memories that have stayed with them over the last 50 years.

Lynne Stokley, CEO of Easterseals Alabama, joins our latest episode to share more about Easterseals and its incredible affiliates. As Easterseals Alabama celebrates its 100th anniversary, we reflect on the lasting legacy they've built over the past century and the impact they will continue to make for generations to come. Through its affiliates, Easterseals Alabama serves individuals and families across the state, creating opportunities, connection, and support for so many. We're grateful to be part of the Easterseals family and look forward to all that's ahead. 

Tom Collier and Judy Williams, two members of the very first Camp ASCCA staff back in 1976, take us on a trip down memory lane. A lot has changed over the past 50 years, but at its heart, Camp is still the same, built on people, connection, socialization, and a true sense of belonging.

Whether you spend a single day at Camp ASCCA or a lifetime, everyone leaves with a piece of it that stays with them forever. We're so grateful to Tom and Judy, not only for helping lay the foundation all those years ago, but for the...

April Buchannon Turner is a Camp ASCCA staff alumna and the current State Head Injury Coordinator at ADRS. April has dedicated her entire career to serving individuals with TBIs and has accomplished incredible things. ADRS is the state's lead agency for coordinating services for Alabamians with TBIs. 

In this episode, April shares more about her pivotal summer at Camp ASCCA and the importance of learning to put others' needs before your own.

Jacob Van Laan, a former Camp ASCCA staff member, spent many summers at Camp during some of the most formative years of his life. Now a software developer, devoted husband, and father, Jacob never imagined that his days as a counselor would one day lead him back to ASCCA as a camper parent. Today, he credits Camp ASCCA with saving his son's life. This is the impact of a lifetime.

Danielle Peters—Occupational Therapist and owner of BlueBird Pediatric Therapy Services—joins us this episode to share her journey from Camp ASCCA summer staff member to Occupational Therapist. What began as a simple summer job quickly opened the door to the world of disability care and sparked a lifelong calling.

BlueBird Pediatric Therapy Services offers occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, and feeding services for children ages 0–18. Danielle reflects on discovering her “why,” the impact of inclusive experiences, and how Camp ASCCA shaped her passion for serving children with disabilities.

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In our latest episode, we welcome back Trish Robinson, Regional Program Manager with Down Syndrome Alabama and Administrative Assistant with Magical Travel Destinations. She shares with our listeners the services she offers to families who want to travel but may face challenges when traveling with a child who has a disability. Trish explores the world of accessible travel and what it truly means to experience a journey without limits.

Welcome to our newest segment of Camp ASCCA: The Podcast – The Nanny Edition!

In this special series, we take a deep dive into what it means to care for children with disabilities. What does that care really look like? How can you get involved? And what lessons can be learned along the way?

In Part One, we welcome Tyree McIntosh, a former ASCCA staff member, as she shares her journey of becoming an au pair overseas. Tyree reflects on how the experience she gained at ASCCA helped shape and pr...

In this episode, we learn more about the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division, from Marianne Gauldin, the Outreach Specialist. The episode explores all things related to the outdoors, accessibility, and how you can begin to embrace the natural beauty that surrounds us every day. To learn more, visit: https://www.outdooralabama.com/

In our latest episode of Camp ASCCA: The Podcast, we're joined by Kelly Edens, a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist and the Therapeutic Recreation Manager at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia. With 25 years of experience, Kelly shares insights into her career journey and highlights the incredible programs and services The Shepherd Center offers for individuals with spinal cord and brain injuries. 

In this episode of Camp ASCCA: The Podcast, we're joined by Debbie Lynn, Director of Easterseals Central Alabama. Debbie leads a team of 40 dedicated professionals providing vital services to individuals with disabilities across the region.

She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Alabama and a master's from Auburn University at Montgomery.

Learn more about the impactful work being done at Easterseals Central Alabama by visiting: https://eastersealscentralalabama.org/

In our latest episode, we have the opportunity to talk with Michael Pereira, founder of The Autism Voyage, a specialized financial services firm for families with special needs. Michael has firsthand experience navigating the unknown—his son was diagnosed with autism during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. He now shares his expertise in financial planning and support for families with special needs. Michael’s personal insight and commitment help similar families navigate their unique challenges.

Zach Woolley, former camper and current fellow at NCHPAD (National Center on Health, Physical Activity, and Disability), shares his incredible journey with Camp ASCCA and all he has achieved while living with a disability.

Zach attended Camp ASCCA from 1998 to 2012 and proudly credits his time there as a major influence on the meaningful work he’s doing today.

Tune in to hear Zach’s inspiring story of resilience, growth, and impact!

Nathan Waters, Assistant Director of the Office of Accessibility at Auburn University, is a Camp ASCCA summer and full-time staff alumni! He started at ASCCA while a student at Auburn University and credits Camp with his successful career path. Nathan was the Outdoor Adventure Director and gained valuable experience that has led him to be a great man, supervisor, husband, and father. We are proud to know Nathan and anticipate all the good things he will continue to accomplish.

In the latest episode of Camp ASCCA: The Podcast, we sit down with John Latimer, Camp & Community Program Director at Camp Seale Harris. CSH's mission is to educate, encourage, and empower children with diabetes and their families to live well. Listen today to learn more about CSH, the individuals they serve, and the lives impacted by this organization.

In this episdoe of Camp ASCCA: The Podcast, we had the opportunity to chat with Dr. Elizabeth Stewart. Elizabeth is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Special Education at the University of Alabama. She is also heavily involved with United Ability and Alabama's Accessing Potential Through Assistive Technology (APT AT). Elizabeth worked as a counselor at Camp ASCCA in 2002 and says that it has played a role in where she is with her career now. 

Lindsey Piazza is an assistant clincial professor in the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences as well as an instructor for the EAGLES program at Auburn University. This episode dives into what speech pathology is, the EAGLES program, and augmentative and alternative communication devices. To learn more about Lindsey visit: https://cla.auburn.edu/directory/lindsey-piazza/

Camp ASCCA's Director, Matt Rickaman, sits down with long-time camper Carmine Vara to discuss what ASCCA means to him. Having attended Camp for over 20 years, Carmine holds a special place in the hearts of everyone on our staff. To know him is to love him. 

In this episode, we welcome Allison Ashurst, the mother of first-time camper Scarlett. This summer marked Scarlett's first experience at Camp, and we'll explore how Allison navigated the challenge of letting go and placing her trust in Camp ASCCA.

In our latest episode, we are joined by Suzy Montgomery, a Senior Instructor, Recreational Therapy Program Coordinator, and Recreational Therapy Internship Coordinator at the Univesity of South Alabama. Suzy has known Camp Director, Matt Rickman for over 25 years. In this episode we dive into what recreational therapy is and its importance of it. 

In our latest episode, Josie and her mom, Catherine, join us and share their personal experience with Camp ASCCA. They describe what it was like to attend, Josie as a camper and Catherine as a summer nurse. The relationships built, memories that linger, and reaching maximum independence are what Camp ASCCA is all about. Listen today to learn more!

Join us as we get to know Camp ASCCA's Outdoor Education Program Specialist! Chris Pendergrass joined our full-time staff in April, but has a long history with Camp ASCCA. Listen today to learn more!

In this episode Regional Manager of Down Syndrome Alabama, Trish Robinson joins us. This episode will dive into Trish's career with DSA, her personal life, as well as, life with a five year old son with Down Syndrome. Listen today!

Dr. Graham Sisson joins us for the latest episode of Camp ASCCA: The Podcast. Dr. Sisson is a current Camp ASCCA Board Member, Executive Director at the Governor's Office on Disability, ADA Coordinator of the state of Alabama, Deputy Attorney General for the state of Alabama, and more. This episode dives into Dr. Sisson's history with Camp ASCCA, extensive education, and successful career. 

In case you missed it on our latest episode, Director of Marketing Communications Dana Rickman joins us for our ASCCA Update. This update dives into Jingle Jump 2023. This is our biggest fundraiser, we have set a goal of $50,000, and we are hoping to surpass it with your help! For more information, visit www.campascca.org

Maggie Barnard is no stranger to Camp ASCCA and joined our full-time staff in October 2023. She has taken on the role of Aquatics Program Specialist and is ready to take on everything this new role entails. Listen today to learn more about Maggie and her history with Camp ASCCA. 

In case you missed it in our latest episode, Director of Marketing Communications Dana Rickman gives our ASCCA Update. This update dives into an upcoming Charity Day with Tidal Wave Auto Spa in Alexander City, Alabama. 

Our 47th summer has come to an end and we could not have asked for better! Listen today to hear more about our exceptional campers, staff, and upcoming registration dates. 

In case you missed it in our latest episode Program Director Amber Cotney gives our ASCCA Update. This update dives into a brief summer wrap-up and what the off season will look like.

Earlier this summer, we hosted the Annual Hall Foundation. The Hall Foundation is a week at Camp ASCCA with participants from various therapeutic recreation departments and students from The University of North Alabama. Our Social Media Specialist, Elise, had the opportunity to sit down with Senior Lecturer Patrick Shremshock and talk about experiential learning and finding your passion. 

In case you missed it in our latest episode Aquatics Program Specialist Justin Hammers gives our ASCCA Update. This update dives into all things Spring Weekend, so give it a listen! 

Searcy Kelly, the mother of Eloise, joins us for an episode that dives into what Camp ASCCA means to their family, why those chose ASCCA, and her business adventure in Auburn, AL.

In case you missed it in our latest episode Camp Director Matt Rickman gives our ASCCA Update. This update dives into all  our hiring needs for Summer 2023 and how our staff is getting ready for this upcoming summer. 

Camp ASCCA's Director of Health Services, Abbey Murray, joins us for an episode of her history with Camp ASCCA, raising four children, running her own business, and proof that there are still good people in this crazy world .  

We just held our first-ever ASCCA Concert Series Fundraiser with the Red Clay Strays! All proceeds raised will go toward funding our Summer 2023 Concert Series. For more information visit our website campascca.org or visit our social media pages @campascca

Musician Langhorne Slim joins Camp ASCCA: The Podcast for an episode about divine medicine, connection with people, and being a part of the "energy business." Join us as we dive into Langhorne's time at Camp ASCCA and what music means to him.

Mark your calendars for our annual Jingle Jump! We've set a goal to raise $50,000 for our Campership Fund. All of the money donated from this event will help send individuals with disabilities to a week at Camp ASCCA this upcoming summer. Visit our website for more information about Jingle Jump. www.campascca.org