Cheryl Kelly
Dilly’s Place is a non-profit organization in Conway Springs, Kansas that was founded in 2009 with the goal of raising funds to build an adaptive playground where individuals of all abilities could play together. Not long after its creation, their board president Cheryl Kelly thought back to her own experiences as a camper at YMCA Camp Hyde, which is part of the Greater Wichita YMCA, and recognized that it could be a great setting to bring families of children with special needs together for a day of activities.
This idea led to the creation of Family Fun Day at YMCA Camp Hyde, which has now been taking place for 14 years. The event provides families the opportunity to participate in camp-style activities in an inclusive and supportive environment. Cheryl, who is now in her 15th year of being involved with Camp Hyde, shared that her connection to camp started when she was a child.
She remembers participating in activities like horseback riding, swimming, and canoeing and wanted other families to have access to similar experiences.
Today, Family Fun Day serves children with a wide range of needs, including those with cerebral palsy, autism, and Down syndrome. The event allows families to experience activities together, many of which may be new to them.
Cheryl noted that even simple experiences, like getting into a canoe for the first time, can be meaningful for both children and their families. Cheryl also shared that she feels the YMCA’s mission aligns well with serving families of children with special needs, as it emphasizes inclusion, support and community. Her involvement is also personal – Dilly’s Place is named after her grandson, Dillon, who is autistic. Her experiences with him have helped shape her understanding of the importance of creating spaces where children feel comfortable trying new things and being themselves.
Over the years, Cheryl has observed the impact camp has on both families and staff. She highlighted the dedication of the counselors who work to ensure that each participant has a positive experience. She recalled a moment when her grandson needed extra assistance during an activity, and when she apologized, a counselor reassured her by saying it was their favorite day of the year.
Family Fun Day continues to be an important event for Dilly’s Place and YMCA Camp Hyde, providing an opportunity for families to connect, try new activities, and spend time together in an inclusive environment. Our partnership has remained strong, and we all look forward to continuing the event in the future.