Summer of Impact: Celebrating Partnerships, Programs & Progress

This summer has been a season of gratitude, growth, and meaningful milestones for ACES. From camp adventures and counselor appreciation to business partnerships and community celebrations, we’ve seen firsthand how working together creates lasting change for autistic and differently-abled adults.

Camp Journey: A Summer to Remember

One of the most exciting highlights of the season was our ongoing partnership with Social Skills Today and Spectrum Autism Support Group to support the life-changing Camp Journey program! Every year, campers dive into a week bursting with friendship, confidence-building, and social growth in a safe and encouraging environment.

This year marked an incredible milestone: no camper scholarships were needed! Every camper had the resources to attend, ensuring that financial barriers didn’t stand in the way of an unforgettable adventure. With that need met, ACES was able to focus on another vital part of the camp—the counselors.

These dedicated staff members spend the week guiding campers with patience, energy, and compassion. Thanks to your support, ACES made sure they received recognition and care for the tireless, transformative work they do. When counselors feel valued, they can give their very best to the campers who depend on them.

Strengthening Community Through Partnerships

We're thrilled to announce that our dedication to creating opportunities goes beyond just our camp initiatives! This summer, we proudly continued our partnership with Special Kneads & Treats, a beloved local business and an inspiring example of supported employment. Their bakery showcases the incredible possibilities when workplaces embrace inclusivity, offering jobs that provide purpose and independence to those who need it most.

ACES is excited to support their mission not only as an annual Gala sponsor but also as a recurring monthly donor, ensuring their amazing impact continues to flourish all year long.

Community Fun with the Donut Dash 5K

The excitement doesn’t stop with camp and cupcakes—ACES is proud to keep the momentum going by sponsoring the 11th Annual Loganville Police Department Donut Dash 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, September 27, 2025, benefiting the Walton County Special Olympics.

This community favorite is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of fitness, friendship, and giving back. Participants of all ages and abilities are welcome to join in, whether you’re:

• 🏃 Running for your best time

• 🚶 Walking with family and friends

• 👏 Cheering from the sidelines, or

• 👻 Supporting as a Phantom Runner—joining the cause without lacing up your sneakers!

No matter how you take part, your involvement directly supports the incredible athletes of Special Olympics, empowering them with opportunities to compete, grow, and shine.

As a proud sponsor, ACESGA.org and the ACES BARKery are honored to stand alongside the Loganville Police Department in making this event possible. Just like a box of donuts is best when shared, the Donut Dash is at its sweetest when the whole community comes together for a common cause.

👉 Mark your calendars, grab your sneakers (or sign up as a Phantom Runner), and join us in making every step count!

Giving Back Through ACES BARKery

One of the most exciting decisions we made this summer was to step forward as a Gold Sponsor of the upcoming Georgia Race for Autism and Fall Festival, taking place on October 4. As one of the state’s largest gatherings dedicated to awareness and acceptance, the Race brings together families, advocates, and community members in a powerful display of support. Sponsorship allows the Barkery to expand its reach while reinforcing our shared commitment to building opportunities and celebrating neurodiversity.

Honoring Businesses that Lead with Inclusion

We are equally thrilled to share that our very own ACES BARKery will be a Gold Sponsor of the Star Shine Gala, presented by Spectrum Autism Support Group. Scheduled for November 8, this inspiring event will shine a light on local businesses that are creating meaningful employment opportunities for autistic individuals—showing that inclusion in the workforce benefits everyone. Over the years, ACES has been humbled to be recognized at this celebration, and this year we are proud to stand alongside other champions of inclusivity as a sponsor.

Swinging Into Action: Our Charity Golf Tournament

Another major focus this summer has been preparing for the upcoming ACES Charity Golf Tournament, one of our most anticipated annual events! Mark your calendars for Friday, October 3, 2025, at Bear Creek Golf Club in Monroe, Georgia.

This signature fundraiser is more than just a day on the course—it’s a celebration of community, camaraderie, and cause-driven fun. Golfers of all skill levels will enjoy a day packed with excitement:

• 🏌️‍♂️ Shotgun Start at 9:00 AM

• 🍳 Breakfast & Check-in at 8:00 AM

• 🥪 Boxed Lunch on the Turn

• 🚁 Helicopter Ball Drop & Hole-in-One Contests

• 🍹 19th Hole Sponsored by Del Rio Bar & Grill – Dacula

• 🎁 Silent Auction, prizes, and more surprises throughout the day!

Behind the scenes, our team has been working hard all summer to secure sponsors, plan special contests, and ensure every detail is in place to make this year’s tournament one of the best yet. Proceeds from the tournament directly support ACES programs, empowering autistic and differently-abled adults through opportunities for growth, employment, and community connection.

👉 Ready to join us on the course? Registration is now open! ACESgolf.org

Looking Ahead

As we turn the page from summer to fall, ACES is energized by all that’s ahead. With the 11th Annual Loganville Police Department Donut Dash 5K Run/Walk on September 27, our ACES Charity Golf Tournament on October 3, the Georgia Race for Autism on October 4, and the Star Shine Gala on November 8, the months ahead promise to be filled with celebration, advocacy, and community impact.

Each of these events represents more than a date on the calendar—they are opportunities to bring people together, amplify inclusion, and expand what’s possible for autistic and differently-abled adults across Georgia. We are deeply thankful to our supporters, sponsors, and partners who make this work possible. Together, we’re proving that every season brings new opportunities to create change, and we can’t wait to share the journey with you.