Easterseals Camp Fairlee Means Fun for Campers and Rest for Caregivers

For the Shuler family, Easterseals Camp Fairlee means something different to them all. For 35-year-old Ryan, a week-long stay at Camp has been a tradition for 26 years. For his 16-year-old, twin brothers, Austin and Elijah, experiencing Camp Fairlee for the first time meant adventure and independence. For their parents, Kim and James, Camp Fairlee means respite and a chance to rejuvenate.

“Camp Fairlee gives us a break. We are able to re-energize, so we are better when they come back from camp,” Kim says. “This year we were able to go on day trips and get things done around the house we couldn’t do with them here.”

While his parents enjoyed respite, Elijah had his sights on other things, like good food. “The food and the activities were good. I liked fishing but not as much as the pool. Camp helped me to become more independent,” Elijah says. “I had a great counselor. The cabins were very cozy. The zip line was cool. I did it twice!”

Easterseals recognizes the many needs of the growing population of people whose lives are impacted by autism. Easterseals meets the needs of this population through a myriad of services offered, including: adult day programs, supported employment services, children’s therapy services, services for caregivers, and through Camp Fairlee, an accessible camp for children and adults with disabilities, including autism. The boys, who have autism, enjoyed Camp’s many activities, especially fishing, since Elijah caught a really big fish.

“I loved the pool. I passed the swim test on the first try. I loved the sitting area where I was able to read my books. The slip and slide and canoeing were my favorites,” Austin says. “I made a friend and we played basketball together. Camping has helped me to become more resourceful. It has helped me to be more prepared and organized.”

Ryan, who loves telling everyone about Camp Fairlee and his experiences there, enjoys trying new things at camp like the rock wall and zip line. He also felt that camp helped him to become more independent. He enjoys meeting new friends and singing karaoke. “I had great staff and can’t wait to go back to camp to spend time with my friends.”

Easterseals Camp Fairlee is an unforgettable experience for people of all ages with disabilities. 

During a typical summer camp session, campers enjoy activities including horseback riding, walking nature trails, zip lining, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, arts & crafts, fishing, and so much more. While campers rely on Camp Fairlee for adventure and independence in a nurturing and supportive environment, parents/caregivers who need respite care depend on Camp Fairlee for high-quality, professional services. Each year, camp counselors receive intensive training to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of the campers.

“If you have a child with a disability, it is a wonderful experience. It is two-fold, they can meet new friends and get to do things they can’t at home and parents get to regenerate and prepare for when they come home,” Kim says. “The boys loved camp so much they were upset to leave and can’t wait to go back next year.”