Staff, volunteers and community partners come together to create Camp Baker’s impact each year
At SOAR365’s Summer Camp, the camper experience is everything.
In 2024, over 400 children and adults with disabilities made their way to Camp Baker, where they would embark on an unforgettable journey. But none of this would be possible without the careful planning, dedication, and unwavering teamwork that goes into every part of the camp.
From the moment the staff gathers for training, they are preparing for more than just summer activities – they are ensuring peace of mind and quality care for every camper throughout the summer.
One of those campers is 68-year-old Jacob Stroy. Over a decade ago, Jacob shared a personal dream with our Summer Camp staff: to ride a Harley Davidson motorcycle. Jacob, who uses an electric wheelchair, never thought that dream could come true. But our staff, knowing how important it was, made him a promise: one day, he would make sure Jacob could experience that thrill, no matter the challenge.
Last summer, thanks to a grant from the Chester Civitan Club and the Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD), SOAR365 was able to purchase a wheelchair-accessible, all-terrain vehicle for Camp Baker. When Jacob saw the vehicle for the first time, his eyes lit up.
With the support of caring staff and volunteers, he was able to take “awesome” trail rides through the woods, and he couldn’t contain his joy. “It’s not a motorcycle, but my dream came true!” he beamed.
This moment was one of many where campers see their dreams turn into possibilities. But it’s not just about fulfilling dreams; it’s about ensuring every camper’s safety and well-being.
Professional nurses are on-site, administering medications and providing care that allows campers to simply focus on having fun. With more than 1,700 different medications needing to be dispensed and nursing costs surpassing $250,000, the support of organizations like the Universal Leaf Foundation is critical to ensuring that every camper’s health needs are met.
“Universal is thrilled to have been able to support SOAR365 over the years and witness their development and growth,” says Shauna Mullen-Smith, Vice President of the Universal Leaf Foundation Board. “The demands on caregivers of individuals with disabilities can be overwhelming. SOAR365 is the only organization that provides overnight respite care for adults in our community and the Foundation endeavors to support them each year so that they can continue to provide this valuable service.”
At SOAR365, every act of kindness, every donation, and every volunteer hour helps create a space where campers can live their dreams.
Summer 2025 is right around the corner! If you, or someone you know, is interested in attending SOAR365’s Summer Camp at Camp Baker, click here for more information and to apply today!