EFP Launches Year 3: Building on Two Years of Impact

September 1, 2026

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Photo credit: Ed Ed Clemente

"What does a Community Foundation do?" It’s a question we are often asked at the Coronado Community Foundation (CCF). One way we answer is by identifying unmet needs in our community and bringing together the right partners to create meaningful solutions. The Exceptional Families Program (EFP) is an example of just that.

-Helen Kupka, Founder & Board President

In April 2024, CCF partnered with Camp Able, the City of Coronado, and Friends of the Coronado Public Library to launch EFP. Designed and led by Jenelle Nettles, Director of Camp Able, EFP brings youth and adults with special needs and their families together through inclusive monthly activities that foster connection, belonging, and meaningful engagement.

EFP was created to serve families with members who have special needs, including many Navy-connected families who face limited access to consistent, inclusive support in Coronado. The program also provides meaningful respite for caregivers and continued opportunities for adults who have aged out of school-based programs to connect, participate, and grow. Now entering Year Three, EFP continues to build on two years of growing participation and community impact.

During the 2025–2026 program year, EFP hosted nine events with 512 total attendees, averaging 56 participants per event. Of those attendees, 120 were from Coronado, with an average of six military families participating at each event. Activities ranged from art studios and holiday celebrations to kite flying and a San Diego Symphony rehearsal at The Rady Shell.

More Than the Numbers

Behind those numbers are the moments that demonstrate what EFP is all about.

At the Halloween Party, parents gathered together while their children participated in activities. One mother who was new to EFP connected with parents of older participants, giving her the opportunity to ask questions, learn about resources, and leave feeling supported by families who understood her experience.

At the December Holiday Party, a returning Coronado Navy family shared that EFP had become their favorite holiday party to attend. When asked what they loved most, the girls immediately said spending time and doing activities with the Camp Able counselors. Their mother shared something equally meaningful: she could step away for a little while knowing her daughters were happy, engaged, and in good hands.

Another moment has stayed with Camp Able Director Jenelle Nettles. A nonverbal autistic young man attended his first Camp Able event with his family and support team. As he was leaving, he approached Jenelle and used his communication device to express one word: “Thankful.”

These moments capture what EFP has grown to represent: not simply a calendar of activities, but a community where exceptional individuals and their families can build friendships, find support, enjoy meaningful respite, and experience a true sense of belonging. As Year Three begins, CCF is proud to continue working alongside our partners to strengthen EFP and ensure exceptional families have a place to connect and thrive right here in Coronado.

Interested in Joining Us at an EFP Event?

We’d love to welcome you! If you are interested in participating in EFP, attending an upcoming event, or learning more about the program, please contact Jenelle Nettles, Director of Camp Able, at director@campableatcoronado.org.