From camper to leader: Olivia’s life-changing turning point at Pine Tree Camp

At Pine Tree Camp, we believe every person deserves to be seen and empowered. For Olivia, last summer was a life-changing turning point.

Olivia joined us for our Leadership in Training (LIT) program, where teens of all abilities work side-by-side to develop leadership skills and gain hands-on experience. Through this unique program, Olivia stepped out of her comfort zone, discovering a level of confidence she never knew she had.

Olivia’s mother, Kelli, told me “She learned how to navigate new spaces and felt like she was part of something bigger. She found a piece of herself that had been missing.”

The impact didn’t stop at the camp gates. Olivia returned to school with a new perspective. She began tutoring and now makes a point to greet a fellow student every morning to ensure he feels seen—just as she was seen at camp.

As Kelli shared, “Pine Tree Camp helped her fit in and find her real self. It wasn’t just a surface level change. The energy inside of our home shifted completely. LIT was a pivotal point in her life and she’s exploring the opportunities available to her now as a result of this training.”

For over 80 years, Pine Tree Camp has been a place where Maine people with disabilities are empowered to lead active, socially connected lives. But we cannot do this work alone. Your support ensures that programs like LIT remain available for young leaders like Olivia, providing them with the mentors and environment they need to thrive.

Will you make a gift today to help more campers discover their abilities?

Your donation directly supports the creativity, structure and safe space that make Pine Tree Camp a home for so many. Together, we can ensure that every individual who comes to camp finds their turning point.

Sincerely,