In its pursuit of creating the most meaningful experiences possible in the lives of individuals with special needs, LYF Inc. is proud to announce its creation of LYF Springs. LYF Springs is a camping experience tailored to the needs of individuals with intellectual, behavioral and physical challenges. LYF Inc. believes in the access of opportunity for all persons, and with the same passion that we utilize as our foundation for our adult day training experiences, LYF Springs is a way for people of all abilities to share in rural living, outdoor work experiences, and wilderness recreation.
LYF Inc. began in 2012 as the dream of two public school teachers. Today, LYF Inc. has stayed true to providing education and advocacy for individuals with disabilities in the greater Tampa Bay Area. We are proud of our 4 adult day training programs that serve our community through teaching life skills, on the job training, vocation education, and providing support for those in need.
LYF Springs takes adult day training to a completely new level. Our loved ones with special needs do not often take part in vacation experiences. Getting away from "it all" isn't always our first priority when focusing on the needs of a special needs individual. LYF Inc. takes on this responsibility in providing a fun, functional, and safe vacation experience for our special friends.
"My son attended the very first camp at LYF Springs and he hasn't stopped talking about this amazing camp! There were so many activities and my son was completely absorbed and learned many new things. The experience was one he won't forget and, in his own words...'there was nothing I didn't love.' The wonderful counselors and Jim kept me up to date and sent pictures. I knew he was in good hands and he cannot wait to attend the camp again. The level of care and love these individuals show my son goes beyond anything I could have hoped we would ever encounter."
"We have been looking for a sleep away camp for our non-verbal daughter for years but we were never comfortable that she would be safe. With LYF, we know and trust the staff so this was an easy decision for us to send her to LYF Springs. At camp our daughter did things we didn’t know she could when helping in the kitchen to prepare meals. She had a great time and it was nice to see her grow from the experience."
"The staff members were helpful in making this a one-of-a-kind experience for him and we are very grateful for that. This was special for us as well because it was always difficult with the wheelchair and other medical needs but this facility was equipped with such great staff and volunteers.
From the bottom of our hearts, we want to say thank you and that the efforts in treating Richard with care and love was well noticed and appreciated. The other kids and our son are so lucky to have a wonderful team looking after them.
The activities, like archery and canoeing, that he was able to experience for the first time were probably most exhilarating for him. All the friendly faces he got to meet and new lifelong friends made. These are memories that Richard will remember and cherish for a long time. Please know that you have truly made a positive impact in our family by contributing to his never-ending smile and happiness. Thank you and God bless."
"I love my daughter and know that she requires constant and consistent supports in order to be successful. Finding her LYF Inc. as a day program has changed my ability work and Shy's ability to socialize and remain on task. When Jim approached me about Shy attending camp I was hesitant, only because I know the level of help she needs throughout the night. Both Natalie and Jim created a plan centered around Shy's needs and were excited to implement it.
LYF Springs was exactly what Shy needed! With structured activities throughout the day, Shy was able to stay engaged and interested in the variety of activities the staff provided and she even learned a thing or two.
Recalling events is difficult for Shy, but after camp, she came home with stories, friends and staff names, and experiences that she took part in. We will definitely be sending Shy back to LYF Springs as soon as possible as it is not only great for Shyanne, but also a much needed break for me and my husband."