IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – With Halloween less than two weeks away, the season for trunk-or-treats is in full swing in Idaho Falls!
One Idaho Falls nonprofit is putting together a trunk-or-treat for kids with disabilities, their families, and everyone else who’d like to join in the fun.
“Camp Hayden’s Haunted Experience & Trunk or Treat” runs from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday at DWI (Develop Worth & Independence), formerly known as the Development Workshop Inc., on 555 West 25th Street in Idaho Falls.
It will include a haunted experience designed to be a kid-friendly, “accessible adventure for all” that’s not too scary.
Camp Hayden was created by Jason Chapa and Kami Schmidt to honor their late son, Hayden, who passed away in 2016 from a rare congenital brain disorder.
“What’s inspired this is my son, Hayden Chapa. And about nine years ago, after he passed away, we decided immediately to start a nonprofit and create unforgettable experiences for kids with special needs,” Chapa said. “That’s exactly what we were able to do with our son when he was with us, and having those memories is something that’ll just keep with you forever. You can have those memories forever, and it’s just something that we hold close to our heart.”
Volunteers are needed to help with the trunk-or-treat, decorating trunks and bringing candy to pass out, or assisting with setup and takedown.
Camp Hayden creates accessible adventures throughout the year – including special needs Easter egg hunts, Christmas light drives, and visits from the Grinch or Sasquatch.
The pinnacle adventure is the annual summer camp, offering hiking, ATVs, horseback riding, inflatable waterslides and more. Held at Aspen Grove Inn and RV Park in Ririe this summer, the camp is designed to create lifelong memories for both participants and volunteers.
“It’s something so special to be able to create this with other families as well because it’s just unforgettable experiences that these kids get to go through,” Chapa said.