"There is 1 camp that really cares about me. I was able to do harder things than the past years. Climb farther harder rafting, and hiking farther."

"He communicates differently now. he's more confident in trying new things, better capable of handling stressful situations."

"I learned that I can tell the truth and that people don't have to control me.. And that I can be respectful of my parents and obey them."

"I wanted to write to let you know our complete satisfaction with our experience this summer...We were a bit nervous (ok, very nervous) about sending our 11 year old son 700 miles away for 2 weeks, despite all the positive feedback we heard...The results have been just amazing though. He had a fantastic time, and gained so much independence and confidence, I think the gains will show for years to come."

"We wanted to write a quick note to let you know how much Robert enjoyed camp. His experience far exceeded his, and our, expectations. The quality of your staff is immeasurable. All areas of the camp were organized with expertise (from the structure of the activities, the behavioral system to the academics program). We plan to enroll Robert for the 2006 season as soon as registration is available."

"Just a note of profound thanks to you and the staff of camp for making such a positive impact on my son...he saw his therapist this week, who remarked afterward that he was like a different person - more mature, self aware...she said she had never seen any therapeutic summer camp program benefit any of her patients so dramatically. "

"She has learned some good techniques for dealing with her anger and reframing responses in a respectful way"

"It finally hit him that he is not alone in his struggles. He came away making new friends who he truly could relate to"

"An extra warm thank you to Robin, who was part of his TOBA staff; he was very impressed with her and says that she showed him in his words 'another way to live a life'"

"Administrative staff were open, accessible, and always willing to talk"

"We were thrilled to find a camp that understood and appreciated (my son's) specific challenges. He came home from his camping experience feeling confident in his ability to make friends on his own. He feels strongly about the skills he learned at camp and can't wait to go back. As a parent, I can't say enough about the staff at Talisman. They were outstanding! They were very supportive of a nervous child and a nervous mom testing the waters of independence for the first time."

The camp has helped Michael grow up.. If it was going to get done, it was up to him to do it. He responded well and we really have seen a difference in him since the camp. The camp is very good at working with each child at their level but at the same time challenging them to stretch. Seeing them as an individual is especially important in dealing with our kids. Talisman seems have a good grasp on this and works with each child rather than just seeing them as a whole group.

The best recommendation I can give is that Michael is really looking forward to returning. He has been back for one fall weekend "adventure" and is excited that Talisman is coming around again. I can vouch for the people, the effects on Michael and the program.but the kids are the best reference for the experience!