July was an exciting month for IN-SIGHT’s summer On the Move Camp, as visually impaired youth from across Rhode Island spent two weeks exploring new places, gaining travel skills, and building the confidence that comes from tackling new challenges. From the bustling streets of New York City to hands-on adventures throughout southern New England, participants discovered that independence grows when learning extends beyond the classroom and into the community.
Week One: Taking on New York City
The first week brought six visually impaired teenagers to one of the world’s most energetic cities: New York City. While the city’s famous landmarks provided unforgettable experiences, the true focus of the trip was developing real-world orientation and mobility skills in a complex urban environment.
Throughout the week, campers navigated crowded sidewalks, mastered complicated street crossings, and learned to maneuver through New York’s extensive subway system. Every journey required problem-solving, teamwork, and confidence as participants practiced skills that will serve them for years to come.
The group visited iconic destinations including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the American Museum of Natural History, and Madame Tussauds. One of the week’s highlights was attending a performance of Hamilton on Broadway, giving campers the opportunity to experience the excitement and energy of world-class live theater.
While the landmarks were memorable, some of the greatest accomplishments happened during everyday moments: independently finding the correct subway platform, navigating a busy intersection, or confidently interacting with members of the public. By week’s end, campers had gained far more than memories. They returned home with stronger travel skills, greater self-confidence, and a deeper belief in their own abilities.
Week Two: Exploring, Learning, and Having Fun
The adventure continued during the second week as sixteen participants, ages 7 to 17, embarked on a variety of accessible educational and recreational outings designed to encourage exploration, socialization, and independence.
The week began with a visit to Southwick’s Zoo, where campers encountered wildlife from around the world, engaged their curiosity, and learned about animal habitats and conservation. At the Connecticut Science Center, participants immersed themselves in interactive exhibits that encouraged hands-on discovery and demonstrated that science can be accessible, engaging, and fun for everyone.
Another highlight was a voyage aboard the Providence-Newport Ferry, where campers enjoyed the sights, sounds, and sensory experiences of traveling on Narragansett Bay. The excursion offered opportunities to learn about maritime transportation while practicing travel and group navigation skills.
The group also enjoyed an unforgettable adventure with Rail Explorers in Middletown, pedaling specially designed rail bikes along scenic railroad tracks. The unique experience combined teamwork, physical activity, and outdoor exploration, creating plenty of smiles along the way.
The week wrapped up with a visit to Topgolf, where participants challenged themselves in a fun and supportive environment. Whether they were swinging a club for the first time or refining their technique, campers demonstrated determination and celebrated each other’s successes.
More Than Summer Fun
While both weeks were filled with exciting destinations and memorable experiences, the true purpose of On the Move Camp extends far beyond recreation. Each activity is intentionally designed to help participants build independence, strengthen problem-solving abilities, develop social connections, and gain the confidence to navigate an increasingly complex world.
From crossing busy streets in Manhattan to boarding a ferry, exploring a science museum, or trying a new sport, campers continually stepped outside their comfort zones and discovered what they can achieve.
The result was two weeks filled with growth, friendship, laughter, and accomplishment. As the summer session ended, participants left with new skills, new memories, and a renewed sense that the world is full of opportunities waiting to be explored.
At IN-SIGHT, we believe that independence is built through experience, and this year’s On the Move Camp once again demonstrated just how far our young people can go when given the opportunity to learn, explore, and thrive
