Someone recently asked me to sum up Pine Tree Camp in one word. I thought for a minute and replied “inspirational.”

Every time I visit Pine Tree Camp I leave feeling inspired. Watching campers who use wheelchairs experience the freedom of kayaking around North Pond.  Seeing the wonder on our campers’ faces as they hike down our accessible nature trail to the accessible treehouse and see a deer for the first time.  Experiencing a camper catch “the big one” on Pine Tree Camp’s accessible pontoon boat.

Something magical happens when our campers come together in a natural environment where barriers have been eliminated and there is free access for participation in the recreational activities for which Maine is famous. From the moment they arrive, campers are immersed in nature with friends by their side.  Friends who understand.

You see the impact immediately, but look closer and you see something more — you will see campers inspiring campers. One camper recently told me about his experience at Pine Tree Camp saying “If they can do it, I know I can do it.” They inspire each other to move beyond their disability.  Campers gain self-confidence.  They are ready to take on the challenges ahead with a positive outlook and hopes and dreams for the future.  It’s incredible to think that Pine Tree Camp’s impact has only just begun when campers leave North Pond after their summer camp experience. Pine Tree Camp transforms lives.

We are proud of our promise to welcome all campers regardless of their ability to pay the $1900 tuition and we couldn’t do it without you. Each year, Pine Tree Camp provides 99% of our campers with full or partial tuition assistance.  This translates into the need to raise $1 million each year to keep our Open Door policy firmly in place.  Pine Tree Camp receives no state or federal funding.

Pine Tree Camp opens its gates for the summer season on June 13. Your help is more important than ever.  Your support of Pine Tree Camp will make a big impact – a lasting impact to our campers. Thank you in advance for your support.

Sincerely,

Noel J. Sullivan
President and CEO

On June 13, Pine Tree Camp opened the gates for the Summer 2017 season.

As campers enter the clearing, with North Pond in full view, they are welcomed with cheers from staff.  Immediately campers “belong.” This isn’t something they are used to.  From that moment on, campers are part of the Pine Tree Camp family. 

Through the support of their new, lifelong friends, they challenge themselves to try new activities like kayaking, archery or sleeping overnight in a tent. They enjoy Maine’s beautiful outdoors and don’t have to worry about barriers. For those six days, they are not different. They are just one of the gang. And their families get a much-needed break from the sometimes overwhelming demands of caring for loved ones with disabilities.

Year after year, campers and their families tell us how their Pine Tree Camp experience has a lasting impact on their lives. Chase Walker's mother described how Pine Tree Camp has impacted her son's attitude and self-confidence year-round.