For nearly 60 years, Quest’s Camp Thunderbird has provided a traditional summer camp experience for individuals with developmental disabilities. As a member of the maintenance and cabin staff team, Tom Carr has spent nearly a decade enhancing that experience.

Where Passion and Purpose Meet

Tom’s journey began when he was looking for a summer job while working for Orange County Public Schools. What started as a seasonal position turned into a meaningful adventure filled with personal growth and a deep sense of community, not only for the campers but for Carr himself.

“We have campers who have been here for 20-plus years, and they look forward to it every summer. It’s a powerful reminder that camp is a special place,” Tom says.

Supporting Families and Building Independence

One of the things that makes Camp Thunderbird so special is the respite it provides families. For many parents and guardians, dropping off their loved ones at camp offers an opportunity to relax, recharge and reconnect socially, knowing that their family members are receiving quality care. For campers, it’s a chance to embrace independence and enjoy new experiences.

Tom gained a deeper understanding of this need after becoming a primary caregiver for his wife following two strokes.

“Working with my wife every day has given me a new appreciation of what the parents and caregivers at camp go through,” Tom says. “Our campers need varying levels of care, and we’re here to embrace them and make them have as good a time as possible.”

Building Spaces for Joy and Connection

Empowering camp guests to choose activities that match their interests is central to creating a fulfilling experience. Tom plays a crucial role in this by building new structures and performing necessary repairs. His efforts ensure that the camp experience is enjoyable and easy for everyone to participate in.

Some of his proudest accomplishments include reconstructing the camp stage, creating memory photo frames for capturing special moments, and installing a majestic Thunderbird that now overlooks the grounds.

Exciting developments are also in the pipeline with the introduction of Adventure Land — an untouched segment of the camp property that promises new, thrilling experiences. In preparation, Tom has constructed a 10-foot-tall canoe gateway to welcome guests to this new area and is currently ensuring the lake will be ready for canoe season.

“I have been happy to work on all these projects and hope everyone enjoys them. It’s important to keep up with our maintenance so people know we appreciate them coming here,” he says.

As another summer at Camp Thunderbird soon comes to a close, Quest is deeply grateful for Tom’s contributions in creating memorable experiences for all. With dedicated staff like him, Quest’s Camp Thunderbird remains a haven filled with friendship, adventure and joy.