The dynamic children who attend Elwyn’s Summer Therapeutic Activities Program – or T-camp as it is lovingly referred to by the kids and their families – have done their part in trying to find a cure for all youngsters with cancer.

The children, all with a diagnosis of special needs on the Autism spectrum, recently completed their annual fundraiser, and have contributed $462.15 to the nationally-renowned Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, the Bala Cynwyd-based charity that helps subsidize research into treatments and cures for pediatric cancer.

The T-Camp participants and staff sold baked goods, lemonade, and paper airplanes, bringing the total amount of their contributions in the last five years to more than $2,400.

“We do the fundraiser during our empathy week of camp, which focuses on various replacement behaviors: giving compliments, making others feel better, helping/doing nice things for others, and interpreting emotions of others,” said Gabrielle Desnouee, Elwyn’s Director of Autism Services.

“So the lemonade stand fits well with this week. The children realized that there are others in need, and they really like helping out. They understand that the money goes to help sick kids get better.”

Before the kids begin the fundraiser, they read Alex and the Amazing Lemonade Stand, the book written by Alex Scott’s parents, Jay and Liz. Desnouee said they enjoy “being just like Alex.”

Elwyn’s T-camp has been a resource for children with autism and their families for more than 10 years, and it quickly fills to capacity, with many families clamoring until June to get a spot for their child.

The goal is to provide a supportive, therapeutic environment that increases socialization and communication skills while decreasing problematic behaviors. It is a typical camp experience, with all the enjoyable activities that children experience in summer camp, like swimming, horseback riding, and trips into the community to bowl, go to the movies, or eat out.