Youth SMILE 4 Special Needs
Youth SMILE 4 Special Needs
Initiated in June 2021 by then-junior member Aila Jiang, the SMILE 4 Special Needs track began as a simple youth buddy project and has since grown into a comprehensive, youth-led initiative dedicated to serving and advocating for the special needs community. Over time, it has evolved into a model of inclusive engagement - empowering youth volunteers to foster connection, understanding, and confidence among individuals with special needs. Through these programs, participants not only help build a more inclusive community but also develop essential skills in leadership, empathy, teamwork, and problem-solving, enriching their own personal growth in the process.
Closely partnered with Hummingbird Community Outreach (HCO), the track now includes five key programs, each designed to promote inclusion and provide meaningful, skill-building experiences. To further expand its impact, a live Youth-Led Inclusive Activity Manual has been created to document all activities and best practices - serving as a practical resource for other youth organizations wishing to replicate the model. The manual is available at: Youth-Led SMILE 4 Special Needs Activity Manual
WHAT WE DO
Youth-Led SMILE Camp
Bucket Drumming for All
Pearland My PlayClub
SMILE Inclusive Play & Learn
Youth-Led SMILE Camp
Originally a basic buddy system, Youth-Led SMILE Camp has grown into a dynamic, youth-driven summer camp where volunteers assist with instructing arts and crafts, music, computer skills, and life skills lessons. By 2024, the camp transitioned to a fully youth-led format, with volunteers developing an innovative curriculum in collaboration with professionals from the center. This curriculum includes multi-skill integrated lessons, a mini-market simulation, mini-Olympics, AI teaching, and a healthy living workshop. The program has earned high praise from both participants and the center’s professionals for its inclusive approach and impactful learning experiences.
Pearland My PlayClub
Pearland My PlayClub is a monthly inclusive play event launched in July 2023 to promote community awareness and inclusion. Sponsored by the City of Pearland and organized by AYLUS Pearland volunteers, the program builds on AYLUS Pearland’s longstanding commitment to inclusivity. Since supporting Pearland’s first inclusive park in 2021 with a donation and ongoing fundraising efforts, AYLUS Pearland has co-hosted 30 events. The program partners with local organizations and the city to foster inclusive play and is now raising funds for the city’s second inclusive park.
SMILE Inclusive Play & Learn
SMILE Inclusive Play & Learn is a semi-structured program that blends play and learning for children with special needs. AYLUS Pearland, in partnership with HCO, has helped youth organizations outside Pearland establish similar programs. Pearland volunteers have shared their experiences and curriculum with youth in Katy, West Houston, and Plano. To date, over 40 SMILE Inclusive Play & Learn sessions have taken place, providing opportunities for children with special needs to engage in enriching and fun activities.
Bucket Drumming for All
This youth-led initiative teaches bucket drumming to individuals of all ages with special needs. Starting with SMILE Summer Camp, AYLUS Pearland volunteers played bucket drums with adults with special needs and performed across Greater Houston. In the summer of 2024, AYLUS Pearland formally joined HCO’s Bucket Drumming for All program, contributing expertise to teach individuals across different age groups. Now in its second consecutive year, this ongoing program continues to grow and bring music, rhythm, and joy to the special needs community. The lessons not only teach rhythm and music but also foster confidence, teamwork, decision-making, and leadership among individuals with special needs.
SMILE Pearland
Launched in September 2025, SMILE Pearland sessions are held monthly at the West Pearland Library, typically on weekends. Each two-hour session includes a short mid-session break and features a unique theme with interactive activities designed to enhance cognitive, fine motor, communication, and life skills - all within a supportive, inclusive, and joyful environment.