Shining Through a Memorable Summer Camp at SDC
This summer, Social Diversity for Children Foundation held its unforgettable week-long summer camp at the beautiful Cultus Lake. Known as the Shine Discovery Adventure Journey Camp, this unique experience was a dream come true for participants, offering an incredible opportunity to explore, bond, and grow in a fully inclusive environment.
Under the thoughtful planning and leadership of SDC Youth Program leader Brent Lu, SDC campers enjoyed a series of engaging and inclusive activities. The Shine Discovery Adventure Journey Camp offered experiences like hiking through nature trails, lakeside fun, roasting marshmallows around a campfire, and watching movies under the stars. These activities were carefully designed to foster interaction, build friendships, and create lasting memories for all the participants.
The camp was not just about fun and recreation; it was about creating a space where every child felt valued, included, and empowered. Through shared adventures, participants bonded and developed meaningful connections that will last a lifetime. “Seeing the joy and excitement on the children's faces made all the hard work worth it,” said Brent Lu. “We wanted every child to feel a sense of belonging and know that they matter.”
The camp’s success was made possible by the generosity of SDC’s sponsors and the dedication of the youth program team. Students from the University of British Columbia’s forestry program also joined the adventure, adding both educational and recreational value to the camp experience. These students guided participants through nature explorations, enhancing the overall learning atmosphere.
David Wang, founder of SDC, reflected on the camp’s deeper significance: “This camp embodies everything SDC stands for: creating opportunities for children of all abilities to come together, explore, learn, and grow in an inclusive environment that celebrates their unique qualities. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this camp a reality.”
Since its founding in 2010, David Wang has led SDC to grow from offering art and music programs to providing a wide range of educational opportunities, including drama, math, virtual reality, dance, and other programs. Today, SDC reaches thousands and thousands beneficiaries globally through its diverse and impactful programs. This camp is just one of many initiatives SDC undertakes to continue fulfilling its mission to empower youth to make a difference in their communities.
The summer camp at Cultus Lake was a shining example of what SDC stands for—a celebration of inclusion, friendship, and the power of community. It demonstrated that when children of all abilities come together, not only can they have fun, but they can also learn invaluable life lessons and form lasting relationships. SDC’s ongoing efforts ensure that every child, regardless of ability, is given the resources and opportunities to thrive.
About the Founder - David Wang
In 2010, David Wang founded Social Diversity for Children Foundation (SDC) with a singular mission: empowering youth to empower children with special needs. Driven by a deep sense of love and compassion, David set out to create a space where children with special needs could feel supported, safe, and accepted—a place they could call their "second home."
David’s vision took shape through a variety of social programs that tapped into creative, academic, and emotional development. From art and music to math and drama, these programs were designed to engage children in ways that not only fostered learning but also built lasting friendships and confidence.
“From small beginnings, SDC has grown into a community where every child, regardless of their ability, can find a place to shine,” says David, reflecting on the Foundation’s journey.
Over the years, David's dedication drew attention and support from around the world, growing SDC into a global movement. His passion has brought communities together, offering resources and opportunities to children with special needs, while inspiring youth to lead with compassion. By expanding SDC’s reach, David has ensured that the Foundation can meet the evolving needs of the community, aiming to cultivate a culture of inclusivity, enthusiasm, and understanding.
Through his leadership, David has demonstrated how one individual’s passion can mobilize global efforts, bringing together diverse voices in pursuit of a shared goal: to create a more compassionate and inclusive society for all.