Easterseals Camp Fairlee Celebrates Grand Opening of New Pool and Aquatic Center

Easterseals Camp Fairlee marked a major milestone recently with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its brand-new accessible pool and aquatic center, a transformative addition to the beloved camp that serves children and adults with disabilities across the region.

The event brought together campers, staff, donors, legislators, board members, and community members to celebrate the opening of the new aquatic facility—designed to offer safe, inclusive, and joyful recreation for individuals of all abilities.

“Thanks to our donors, volunteers, and legislative champions, Camp Fairlee continues to grow into a model of accessible, innovative recreation for people with disabilities,” President/CEO of Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Ken Sklenar, said. “The pool has always been the heart of camp life. For many campers, it’s their only opportunity each year to enjoy swimming. Our old pool served us well for 60 years, but it was time for a new chapter.”

The new aquatic upgraded facility was thoughtfully designed with accessibility and safety at the forefront, including a maximum depth of five feet, underwater lighting for evening use, a Baja shelf for ease of entry, and accommodations that now allow campers with feeding tubes to participate in aquatic activities—many for the first time.

“This pool is a game-changer,” Easterseals Chief Operating Officer, Pam Reuther, said. “It’s not just a physical upgrade. It represents expanded opportunity and more moments of joy and connection for every camper who comes through our gates.”

The project was made possible through the generosity of more than 157 donors, including lead supporters such as the Longwood Foundation, Homes for Life Foundation, Crystal Trust, Welfare Foundation, and long- time friends of Camp Fairlee, Dan and Susan Katzin.

Maryland Delegates Jay Jacobs and Steve Arentz were recognized during the ceremony for their leadership in securing critical funding through the Maryland Bond Bill, which supported not only the new pool but also much-needed staff lodging and other camp improvements.

The pool ceremony concluded with a symbolic ribbon-cutting led by campers, marking the official opening of the aquatic center. The project is part of an ongoing capital campaign, with approximately $200,000 still needed to fully fund the initiative. Contributions continue to be welcomed to help bring the campaign across the finish line.

“My son Stevie loves the water because it gives him freedom from his chair. Camp Fairlee’s new pool is very accessible and beautiful. It's no wonder the pool is a favorite to the campers and counselors,” Terry Tull said.

Stevie attends Camp Fairlee every summer.

In addition to the new pool, Camp Fairlee opened its first sensory-friendly cabin this summer, made possible through the generous support of Micki and Lanny Edelsohn and the Homes for Life Foundation. The new cabin allows campers with sensory needs to have specialized sleeping arrangements that provide quiet, calming spaces where they can sleep through the night.
To learn more about Camp Fairlee or donate, visit the Camp Fairlee Website.