Camp Jabberwocky campers were greeted on Monday morning at the Steamship terminal by camp counselors wearing feather boas and cymbal tambourines. This is the start of the second week of summer camp and the reunion of returning campers and counselors was filled with joyous smiles and hugs.

Camp Jabberwocky is the oldest sleep-away camp in the country for people with disabilities. The camp was founded by Helen Lamb in the 1950s who wanted to provide campers of all abilities with a fun and fulfilling experience.

There are eight total weeks of camp each summer, with approximately 125 campers and 200 volunteers expected this season. Sessions are filled with biplane rides, fishing trips and excursions all over the Island, including the camp’s regular outing at State Beach.

Next stop - Camp Jabberwocky!

Ray Ewing

Next stop - Camp Jabberwocky!

Ray Ewing

Summer camp co-director Caitlin Lamb, who is the granddaughter of the founder, said the goal has always been to be inclusive and positive.

“It’s such an intentional community, and we really work hard in the best way to make sure that every single person in the community is feeling like they are loved for exactly who they are and what they bring to the community, and celebrated for who they are,” she said.

Camper Amy is spending her fourth summer here and said she is looking forward to the various planned events.

“I’m excited to go see the Sharks game,” she said. “Also, helping at prom with the balloon arches.”

Executive director Hilary Dreyer said she is enjoying her second summer as director.

Counselors are ready to greet new campers.

Ray Ewing

Counselors are ready to greet new campers.

Ray Ewing

“It’s the unplanned times where the magic happens,” she said. “We’re all looking forward to getting to know these campers really well and making sure that they have an incredible time.”

Stacie Hanson is returning for her second summer as a counselor and loves seeing the bonds formed between counselors and campers.

“It’s really cool to see the dynamics of our community as we build every session,” she said.

Camp director Gabi Cortez said she loves giving everyone a fulfilling summer camp experience,

Emily Begley and Marianne Mahoney.

Ray Ewing

Emily Begley and Marianne Mahoney.

Ray Ewing

“Even if it’s your first summer with us or your 10th summer with us, it should feel like you’re coming back to your best friend,” she said. “That’s how I felt when I went to summer camp and I think that’s how everyone should feel when they come to any summer camp.”

Camper Marianne, who has been coming to Camp Jabberwocky for over a decade now, said she loves the experience for one simple reason.

“Because this place is family to me,” she said.

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