NEW ORLEANS (press release) – The Beignet Fest Foundation celebrated a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday, May 30, to launch the inaugural Camp Benny summer camp program for children on the autism spectrum. The camp kicks off at the University of Holy Cross in Algiers on Monday, June 9.
One of every 31 children is diagnosed on the autism spectrum, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. Camp Benny was developed in response to a growing need in Greater New Orleans for summertime experiences that accommodate the abilities of autistic youth. Created in partnership with Kidcam Camp Programs, a trusted summer camp provider known for its popular camps across the Southeast, Camp Benny will serve 50 children this summer.
“When the Beignet Fest Foundation came to us with the idea to partner to create a special summer camp for children on the autism spectrum, we jumped at the chance,” said Melissa Conner, president and CEO of Kidcam, in a release about the camp. “We’ve talked about doing something like this for years, seeing the need across our footprint, and now with the Beignet Fest Foundation, we’re able to put this incredible camp experience together.”
Darbi Philibert, a Certified Autism Specialist and occupational therapist, serves as the director of Camp Benny. With almost three decades of experience, Darbi has devoted her career to enhancing the developmental outcomes of children with developmental challenges.
“Camp Benny is more than just a summer program—it’s a place where every child can truly thrive,” said Philibert. “We’ve created an environment built on inclusivity, connection, and growth, ensuring that every camper feels valued, supported, and empowered to explore their strengths.”
The six-week sensory-friendly camp will take place on the campus of the University of Holy Cross over two three-week sessions with programming that helps campers develop social skills and have fun and meaningful interactive experiences.
“We are thrilled to provide a setting at the University of Holy Cross that will allow these children to have a positive and affirming summertime experience, enjoying our greenspaces and campus facilities,” added Dr. Stanton McNeely, president of the University of Holy Cross. “The added bonus is that some of our education and healthcare students will be working on the Camp Benny staff, giving them a remarkable career-building experience right here on our campus.”
In addition to a high counselor-to-camper ratio, additional volunteer “buddies” will be on-site to assist with the unique needs of Camp Benny participants.
“What started as a dream when we first created the Beignet Fest Foundation, Camp Benny represents an exciting milestone,” said Beignet Fest Foundation Executive Director Sherwood Collins. “We have created a place for autistic children to play and socialize when school is out for the summer. Also, Camp Benny isn’t just a huge benefit for kids but also their parents who can go to work rest assured that their child is in a caring and engaging atmosphere.”
Often, summer camps that accommodate neurodivergent children are out of reach for financially constrained families. With a goal to make Camp Benny accessible regardless of household income, the Beignet Fest Foundation made a commitment to provide financial assistance to qualified families. This year, more than 50% of Camp Benny participants will receive financial aid to attend the camp.
Camp Benny was made possible thanks to proceeds from the 2024 Beignet Fest and support from The Weishaupt Family Foundation/Ruby Slipper, The Schlakman Family, Lauren and Larry Srigley, Walmart, Chalmette Refinery and numerous supporters who donated funds and camp supplies. Additional support comes from the Tres Doux Krewe, an all-female community group established by the Beignet Fest Foundation who raised critical funds throughout the last year for the creation of Camp Benny, and whose founders, which consist of parents of autistic children and clinicians who specialize in autism diagnosis and treatment, served on the camp’s advisory board.
Both sessions for the inaugural Camp Benny are filled but interested parents should email campbenny@beignetfest.com to be notified of future sessions. To learn more about Camp Benny, visit campbennynola.org.
The Beignet Fest Foundation mission continues with the 2025 Beignet Fest, which will take place Saturday, Nov. 15 in New Orleans City Park. Tickets are expected to go on sale this month.
