Man with Hollywood background directs film camp for kids with autism

MORAGA, Calif. (KGO) -- A summer camp director who started his career as a special education teacher is bringing his close connection to Hollywood to the Bay Area.

Joey Travolta, brother of actor John Travolta, who is also an actor and a director, directs a film camp for people on the autism spectrum.

His camp is made possible through a partnership with Futures Explored, Inc. of Lafayette, an organization that provides life skills, community and employment opportunities to adults with developmental disabilities.

"It gives people a voice. It gives them a forum," Travolta said. "All us filmmakers and actors are an odd bunch."

Elliot Cole Schneider is a former camper turned writing instructor, and now he's a paid employee as a result of the program.

"I love. I would it for free, but they're paying me," Schneider said. "I don't think before the film camps I'd even be able to do this interview I'd be way too stressed out and anxious."

For two weeks, the campus of Saint Mary's College in Moraga turns into a Hollywood lot.

"Everything goes into filmmaking goes into everyday life, so you're are learning life skills, social skills through the art of film making," Travolta said.

And the sometimes anxious people become articulate.

Some 55 people are participating in this year's camp where stars are born.

"I've really learned to come out of my shell and that I could trust people," Schneider said. "People see people on the spectrum and they're like, oh I feel so bad for them. Don't feel bad for us. Give us the tools we need to succeed and we can do amazing things."