Special program draws in kids from across the nation

MISSISSIPPI STATE, Miss. (WCBI) – Camp Jigsaw at Mississippi State draws even more campers in the program’s 11th year.

Camp Jigsaw is a week-long camp for autistic young men, ages 12-21.

The Center for Disease Control reports one in 59 children are born with autism, and it’s four times more likely in males than females.

Activities at Camp Jigsaw include social skills developing – keeping eye contact, a positive tone, and peer interaction – to prepare them for interacting in the outside world.

“It kind of takes away all of those social pressures because they are not seen as different by anyone here. They’re only accepting and loving for each other,” said Counselor Adrienne Callahan.

The camp is fully funded through private donations; not a single camper pays to attend.

Camp Jigsaw’s popularity is nationwide, and campers as far as Alaska make the trip to attend.