Hey everybody! First, did you know Spread the Word to End the Word (now simply Spread the Word) is a global campaign founded in 2009 by Special Olympics and Best Buddies International to eliminate the derogatory use of the “R-word” and promote inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Held annually on the first Wednesday of March, it encourages people to take a pledge to stop using this slur and foster respect.
In honor of my session theme decades, I’m taking you guys down memory lane to the past grocery stores that you may remember, like Delchamps, Food World, Bruno’s, Winn Dixie, etc. Many parents say to their kids, “Don’t touch anything, don’t ask for anything, and don’t look for anything,” before entering the store. This activity will help by having you push the cart or walk up and down the aisle all the way through. Please help other disabled people reach the top shelf of the aisle if you are asked. You may also be asked to lift a big bag of dog food, big bottles of laundry detergent, and big jugs of juice while you are there. It’s just hard work.
When it’s time to check out, all the items on the belt are ready to be scanned and bagged, except at Aldi, where you are asked to bag the items yourself. Back then, the cashier would put a Camp ASCCA Summer Camper Application in the bag to remind them. The baggers would push the cart for you and help load groceries into your car. Wearing Camp ASCCA shirts at the store shows people who you are.
Caroline’s Cart is a special needs cart used by parents or caregivers to transport someone while shopping. Walmart now offers Sensory Shopping Hours every day from 8 to 10 AM.
The weather is getting ready to get warmer really soon. The first ASCCA season begins with Spring Weekend on March 27-29. The photo booth for the summer will soon be changing scenes for the year. They are going to need male and female counselors and program staff for Summer 2026. Don’t forget to apply.
