By Denise David
As parents, we want our children to have the best possible opportunities. One local family found themselves searching for answers and assistance to help their children have a more positive learning experience—but they were unsure where to turn.
The McCormack family had a kindergartner who was feeling stressed about school and a preschooler who was being sent home almost daily because of behavioral challenges. Parents Jessica and Chris struggled to find helpful resources. Their pediatrician dismissed their concerns, and although a school administrator recommended testing, the family was not making progress.
Then the children’s grandmother, Susie Johnson, recalled an article she had read in Florida Elks Magazine. As a new member of Elks Lodge 1795 in Fort Walton Beach–Destin, she wondered whether the organization might be able to help her grandson.
The family decided to homeschool both children while actively seeking a solution. After further research, they began the application process for their young son, Charlie.
Following a period on the Elks program’s waiting list, Charlie and his mother participated in a two-day assessment and diagnostic evaluation at the Florida Elks Youth Camp in central Florida. Rather than a brief clinical appointment, the evaluation gave staff time to connect with Charlie through play, meals tailored to his sensory preferences and observations of his social interactions.
Jessica was impressed by the beautiful campus, comfortable accommodations and clear explanations provided throughout the process.
With a psychometrist and psychiatrist on staff, the program helped the family obtain the answers they needed before Charlie’s 5th birthday. The family was then able to apply for a Step Up scholarship. The resulting financial assistance has allowed them to enroll Charlie in a summer camp, purchase helpful tools for use at home and look forward to a brighter future.
At first, the family encountered uncertainty, denial and a lack of understanding from some members of the community. There was also concern that receiving a diagnosis at such a young age might negatively affect Charlie. Instead, the answers, support and future services now available to him have given the entire family renewed hope.
Throughout Florida, members of the Fraternal Order of Elks collectively raise funds and awareness to support local families through Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services. “In addition to the more than 650 children we treat through FECTS, we are blessed to have our new Florida Elks for Autism program,” said Colleen Gallant, director of Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services. “To date, we have tested 120 children and continue to test 10 children every other month at the Florida Elks Youth Camp.
“The way our program works is that we bring the family to the Youth Camp for testing. While the family is at camp, we provide meals and, if needed, a room at the Smith Conference Center. The Adult and Pediatric Institute uses the ADOS-2 test, and once testing is complete, the family receives a detailed report with a diagnosis and information about resources available in their area. All of our services are provided at no charge to the family.”
Families seeking additional information can visit elkstherapy.com, where they will find program details, a brochure and the necessary application.
