Easterseals Camp Fairlee Is the Place To Be!

Twenty-five-year-old Kenneth “Ken” Sugathan, of Hockessin, DE, cannot wait to spend two weeks this summer at Easterseals Camp Fairlee. He has his sights set on relaxing in the new, accessible pool, creating pottery pieces, challenging his bravery on the climbing tower, and, of course, eating great food. 

“Camp Fairlee is a really good camp. I appreciate it a lot. Camp Fairlee is definitely the place to be. I would recommend it to others. Camp is important,” Ken, who has an intellectual disability, says. “The staff is so wonderful. The food is really good. They put together really nice meals.”

While campers rely on Camp Fairlee for adventure and independence, parents/caregivers like Ken’s parents depend on Camp Fairlee for high-quality, professional services for their loved ones so they can also rest and recharge from daily caregiving. Each year, camp counselors receive intensive training to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of the campers.

“Ken speaks highly of Camp’s staff. He loves Camp Fairlee and waits for summer. He reminds me to apply early to get the weeks he wants. He encourages parents to send their loved ones to camp,” Ken’s mom, Ranjana Tavorath, says. “Easterseals has a lot of programs. They give me a sense of comprehensive support, long-term,” Ranjana says. “Camp gives me a breather. It means I can take a break.” 

Ken is able to enjoy these adventures and independence thanks to the funds provided through Easterseals Agency With Choice (AWC). Available to individuals enrolled in the Medicaid Lifespan Waiver through the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS) who live in their own home or with family members, AWC gives participants greater control over how they receive services. With a referral from DDDS, Easterseals’ AWC Coordinators help families recruit, hire, train, and supervise caregivers for services such as personal care assistance and respite camp services.

“Camp Fairlee provides a safe environment for campers like Ken to enjoy a variety of summer sports and to make friends,” Ranjana says. “The opportunity to socialize with other campers is extremely valuable.”

Easterseals Camp Fairlee, outside of Chestertown, Maryland, is one of the only camps in the region that provides a typical residential camp experience for children and adults with disabilities. Fairlee offers week-long camp sessions throughout the summer. Learn more about Camp Fairlee services at www.campfairlee.com.   

For more information on Easterseals Agency With Choice, call (302) 324-4444 and ask to speak with our Agency With Choice (AWC) team or email: DDDS-AWC@esdel.org.

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Learn more about Easterseals Agency With Choice