In summer 1945, Pine Tree Society rented a 100-acre camp on North Pond for just $600. Seventy-five children with disabilities were welcomed from all over Maine to what became known as Pine Tree Camp, the region’s first summer camp for people with disabilities.

While much has changed over the past 60 years, Pine Tree Camp in the town of Rome continues to be unique – one of only a few camps nationwide that offers an extraordinary residential and fully accessible camp experience for children and young adults with physical and developmental disabilities.

“Over the years, Pine Tree Camp has changed dramatically to continue to meet the needs of the people we serve,” said Anne Marsh, executive director of Pine Tree Society. “Although much has changed, our commitment to provide a place where the disability doesn’t matter and one’s ability is encouraged and applauded, is stronger than ever.”

Over the years, Pine Tree Camp has grown in capacity and now welcomes some 500 children and adults with disabilities over the summer. During their stay, campers have the opportunity to experience typical outdoor recreational activities including boating and fishing on adaptive pontoon boats, kayaking, swimming and participating in adaptive outdoor games including archery, soccer, baseball and basketball.

“Our 250-acre facility is completely barrier-free,” said Marsh. “It gives our campers an opportunity to participate in typical Maine summer camp activities in an accessible, safe and loving environment.”

Since it began, Pine Tree Camp has never closed its gates to anyone because of the inability to afford tuition.

“Our Open Door policy is made possible because of the support of thousands of generous friends, contributors and volunteers who give of themselves year after year,” said Marsh.

Pine Tree Camp is one of the many programs of Pine Tree Society. Pine Tree Society helps people in Maine with disabilities lead richer, more socially connected lives. The organizations shares a spirit of innovation and desire to discover new ways to break down barriers that many find insurmountable.

“It started as a bold new idea in 1936, and it continues every day. Whether it’s a child discovering her first best friend at Pine Tree Camp or an adult finding his voice with customized assistive technology, Pine Tree Society changes lives,” Marsh said.

For more information, call (207) 443-3341 or visit www.pinetreesociety.org.