By The Outer Banks Life contributor, Janet Arnold
Every child deserves the chance to experience the joy, adventure, and friendships that make summer unforgettable. That’s exactly what The Wave Function Project is creating for children and young adults with disabilities across the Outer Banks.
Recently, The Outer Banks Life had the opportunity to speak with Alex Cohill, Executive Dir. of The Wave Function Project, a new nonprofit dedicated to providing interactive summer programming that combines creativity, play, hands-on learning, and meaningful community experiences. Their mission is simple but powerful: to ensure that every child has access to a summer filled with fun, growth, and belonging.
The inspiration behind the organization grew from a need Cohill repeatedly witnessed as a special education professional — the lack of structured summer activities and meaningful social opportunities for children and young adults with disabilities. Rather than waiting for someone else to address the challenge, he decided to take action.
“The need is honestly simple,” Cohill shared. “These kids deserve the same thing every kid deserves: a great summer break.”
Beginning June 29 and running through July 30, 2026, the free five-week program will operate Monday through Thursday at the Dare County Youth Center in Kill Devil Hills. Campers will enjoy activities ranging from arts and crafts, music, gardening, movement, cooking lessons, and water play to community outings including bowling, swimming, farm visits, and exploring downtown Manteo.
Unlike traditional camps, every aspect of The Wave Function Project is intentionally designed to meet the unique needs of its participants. With highly trained staff, smaller camper-to-adult ratios, and individualized support, families can feel confident knowing their children are in a safe, welcoming environment where they can thrive.
A central focus of the program is providing authentic community experiences. Cohill hopes to create opportunities where children and families feel welcomed and included while building confidence and independence. “No one gets set up to fail,” he explained. “We want families to trust us, and we earn that trust by including them every step of the way.”
The organization’s tagline, “Potential, Made Visible,” reflects its deeper mission. Inspired by the scientific concept of a wave function, the name symbolizes limitless possibilities waiting to be discovered. Through every activity, friendship, and new experience, campers will have the chance to reveal strengths and abilities that might otherwise go unseen.
As The Wave Function Project prepares for its inaugural summer, community support is already growing. Donations, activity ideas, volunteer involvement, and simple acts of kindness can all help create a more inclusive Outer Banks for everyone.
When asked what residents can do, Cohill offered a heartfelt reminder: “When you see our group out and about, say hello. Give a friendly smile. Be patient. Be kind.”
In a world that often focuses on limitations, The Wave Function Project is shining a light on possibilities: one child, one family, and one unforgettable summer at a time.
The following people currently serve on the Board of Directors for The Wave Function Project:
- Alex Cohill, Executive Director
- Lauren Bradshaw, Secretary and Program Coordinator
- Suzanne Loving, Treasurer
To learn more about the non-profit organization, visit their website at www.wavefunctionproject.org, or follow them on Facebook for additional updates.
The post Feel Good Features: The Wave Function Project brings summer joy to Outer Banks families by making potential visible appeared first on The Outer Banks Life.