Kinney Autism & Support
Growing with Kinney: Nick’s Journey of Support and Service
Nick Tapino '28 with the Saint Joseph's Hawk
When Nick Tapino '28 first stepped onto the Saint Joseph’s University campus as a student, it already felt like home. Now a sophomore computer science major, Nick is also part of the Kinney Center’s ASPIRE program, which offers individualized support to help students thrive during their college journey. This past summer, Nick served as an Operations SCHOLAR at Camp Kinney, working behind the scenes to organize supplies and coordinate activities that kept camp running seamlessly. His involvement with Kinney is more than just a recent chapter, it’s a connection that has shaped his life for nearly a decade.
Nick’s journey with Kinney began in 2015 at age 9, when he and his twin brother, Tommy, joined Saturday Sports and Camp Kinney. Those early experiences planted a seed that would later grow into something so special.
“Kinney played a pretty significant role in me committing here and applying in the first place,” Nick shared. He noted that “It is a very unique program…there are not many organizations like Kinney that I have seen… that support people who are on the spectrum.”
“Kinney played a pretty significant role in me committing here and applying in the first place.”
Even as he grew older and became more independent, Nick knew he wanted to stay connected to Kinney. “Although I’m not as dependent on some stuff, the support is still needed,” he explained. Working at Kinney not only gave him purpose but also allowed him to be part of the same community that once supported him.
When asked what he would tell his younger self walking into the Kinney Center for the first time, Nick paused before stating: “These people will make a difference in your life.”
That difference has shaped his goals for the future. “I can help people who are also on the spectrum, and that’s what I want to continue to learn. I know what they may like or not like, so I have a good idea how to help them.”
Kinney is a foundation for how he hopes to live his life. As Nick reflected he said, “After being with Kinney… it’s made me more passionate about wanting to give back to the community.” From camper to advocate, Nick’s story is a true reflection of the Kinney spirit: one of growth, gratitude, and giving back.