AbilityFirst has received a $12 million gift from the AS&F Foundation to create an endowment for Camp Paivika, a fully accessible camp for individuals with disabilities.

The gift was announced at Camp Paivika’s 70th anniversary session. Camp director Kelly Kunsek (left), AS&F Foundation trustee John Llewellyn, AbilityFirst CEO Lori Gangemi and AS&F Foundation trustee Carol Llewellyn joined campers Josh and Sara Souder for the announcement about the grant. The Llewellyns presented a check to Gangemi and Kunsek.

(photo courtesy of AbilityFirst)

“We are absolutely overjoyed with this gift from the AS&F Foundation,” Gangemi said. “The endowment will help to provide a resource for sustainability for Camp Paivika so we can continue to help hundreds of individuals each year to make new friends, try new activities and become more independent, all while enjoying a traditional camp experience.”

Camp Paivika was established in 1947 as one of the first fully accessible camps in the nation. It has helped tens of thousands of children and adults with disabilities enjoy traditional camp activities adapted to be fun and encourage participation from all campers. The staff makes sure that no one is ever left out. The camp also gives families and caregivers of campers a respite from the challenges of providing care for a disabled child.

“Camp Paivika is a special place, not just for campers but for all who are touched by their shared experiences here at camp,” Carol Llewellyn said. “Magic happens at Camp Paivika, and we believe this gift will help to ensure that magic continues for many years to come.”

The Camp Paivika Endowment will be used for care, maintenance, capital projects and operations at the facility.

For information, visit abilityfirst.org.