Geovani

Geovani, Geo for short, attended Camp Hiawatha during the summer of 2025. As a teen camper with autism, he faced a challenge that many of his peers did not — he did not know how to swim. More importantly, he often struggled to ask for help when he needed it.

Being a teenager who couldn't swim was something that made Geo feel embarrassed and self-conscious. Recognizing this, Camp lifeguards Mateo, Chloe and Elizabeth decided to step in. Without being asked and on their own time during breaks, they created a plan to help teach Geo how to swim.

For Geo, this meant everything. Week after week, he worked hard, practiced and gained confidence in the water. The encouragement and patience of the lifeguards helped him believe in himself and push through his fears.

Then, during the final week of camp, Geo achieved something he once thought was out of reach — he passed the swim test.

The lifeguards taught him how to swim and stay safe, but they also showed him that he was capable of more than he imagined.