Quest’s Camp Thunderbird is more than just a seasonal escape. For Tammy, a longtime camp guest, it is a significant part of her life story. The camp experience nurtures her zest for life and fosters independence and confidence through its supportive community.
Since her first summer in 1991, Tammy has found her second home at Camp Thunderbird, a tight-knit and supportive community. Tammy’s mother, Vicki, vividly recalls her immediate sense of peace and comfort when they first met Rosa, a counselor at Camp Thunderbird, that year. It began an almost three-decade-long journey of empowerment and growth for Tammy.
Joy, Familiarity and Connection
Camp Thunderbird is a canvas of joyful experiences for Tammy, from swimming, her favorite activity, to the simplicity of relaxing in nature. She finds a sense of belonging, mastering the layout like the back of her hand and developing a profound connection with her surroundings.
The feeling of familiarity and comfort is a testament to Camp Thunderbird’s success in creating a home away from home for its camp guests. “Tammy is such a happy-go-lucky girl that she just beams at camp,” Vicki says with a smile. “When I look at the camp pictures with her posted daily, I know if she’s had a good day because I can tell by her face. And normally, she’s grinning like a silly girl.”
Tammy has gained many friends over the years, and among the cherished memories are the T-shirts she’s collected. Each shirt is a remembrance of summers filled with adventure, learning and friendship.
Building Independence Through Inclusive Experiences
She continues to blossom at Camp Thunderbird. “It’s helped her become more independent. It’s allowed her to remember her friends long-term. It’s allowed her to be more confident in her own abilities,” Vicki says.
Tammy enjoys the campfires at camp and loves to sing and tell stories. This year, she has her sights set on swimming in her life jacket and playing bingo. However, she adamantly expresses that she will stay away from archery.
As Tammy prepares for another magical camp year, Vicki reminds everyone not to underestimate the guests. “They deserve to experience the same things anybody else does, which is possible at camp,” Vicki says.
About Quest’s Camp Thunderbird
Quest’s Camp Thunderbird offers a classic summer camp experience for adults with developmental disabilities. Camp guests choose from various activities based on personal interests and preferences, including sports and games, archery, pool time, arts and crafts, canoeing, nature studies and more!
