Who We Are
We are more than just a summer camp. We are a safe, welcoming place where teens and adults with disabilities can relax, connect, and grow. Lions Camp Horizon gives campers the chance to unwind, make friends, and gently stretch outside their comfort zones in a supportive environment. By focusing on what each person can do, we build confidence, independence, and self-esteem. Abilities, not disabilities, lead the way… and FUN is always the top priority
What We're All About
Our Mission
To provide recreational activities that encourage independence, build new skills, develop lifelong friendships, and create lasting memories of camp.
Our Vision
To empower people challenged by disabilities through experiences that help develop life skills, foster independence, and build self-esteem.
Core Values
To respect the diversity we represent, create inclusive opportunities for individuals of all abilities, and empower each person to grow, succeed, and shine.
Our Team
Our Staff
Angie DixonBusiness AdministratorI’m honored to be Camp Horizon’s first year-round, full-time employee, joining the team in January 2024. I’m a lifelong Blaine resident who cares deeply about this community and the people who make it special. I graduated from Blaine High School and spent many years working for the Blaine School District. I also served on the Blaine Parks Board, where I helped with fundraising for the Marine Park Playground. I’ve always loved being part of projects that bring people together and feel that same connection at Camp Horizon. After seeing firsthand the joy, laughter, and pure happiness this place brings to campers, I completely fell in love with camp. You simply can’t help but smile when you’re here.Outside of camp life, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, and I’m always out exploring this beautiful state whenever I get the chance.
Na'Kita ZylstraProgram ManagerMy name is Na’Kita, and my camp name is Ranger (because I love the New York Rangers)! I have an associate’s degree in integrated arts in education, a bachelor’s degree in disabilities and exceptionalities, and a master’s degree in special education. In my free time, I enjoy a variety of activities such as playing ice hockey, dancing ballet, practicing my cello, and painting. I travel to volunteer and learn about how people with disabilities are cared for in other countries, and I speak German, Chinese, and basic ASL. I emphasize life skills, creativity, and social connection in all the activities I plan for camp. Using my experience, education, and enthusiasm for this career field, I work hard to provide all campers with a fun and valuable adventure each summer!
Lions Camp Horizon is beyond grateful for our seasonal camp staff. We couldn't do it without their smiles and energy
Our Board
Lions Camp Horizon is owned and operated by the Camp Horizon Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization. The Foundation has a Board of Directors comprised of District 19H Lions and other community members who share our passion to provide services to individuals with disabilities. All directors are unpaid volunteers. Interested in serving on our board? Let’s talk. Email our Board President to start a conversation.
Board of Directors
- President - Melisa VanderStelt
- Vice President - Christina Thomas
- Treasurer - Vacant
- Secretary - Wendy Canessa
- Don Webster - Former President & Facilities Director
- Facilities Advisor - George Henderson
- Canadian Outreach Coordinator - Lynda Davidson
- Bill Briggs - Camp Casey Representative
- Spencer Koch - Member at Large
History of Camp Horizon
Camp Horizon began in 1974 when the Lynden Jaycees recognized a need for recreational opportunities for adults with developmental and physical disabilities. The first summer, 17 campers gathered at the Lynden Fairgrounds for what would become the beginning of a lasting legacy. By 1981, the program had grown beyond the Jaycees’ capacity, and the Lynden Lions Club assumed leadership, hosting 85 campers that year. Continued growth led to a move in 1985 to the former Blaine Air Force Station, now Whatcom County’s Bay Horizon Park where Camp Horizon welcomed 130 campers during its first season at the new location.
In 1986, the Camp Horizon Foundation was established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, owned by Lions Clubs of District 19H (NW Washington and SW British Columbia). As our programs expanded, so did our reach and impact. Over the years, our sessions grew into multiple one-week programs and eventually evolved into a combination of Base Camp and Adventure Camp sessions, allowing us to serve more campers with a wide range of abilities and support needs.
For more than 50 years, tens of thousands of volunteer hours from Lions Club members and community supporters have helped maintain and improve our campus. Thousands more hours have been donated during the camp season, helping us keep operational costs as low as possible for campers and families. Generous financial support from Lions Clubs, individual donors, and members of our community has made continual improvements possible, from kitchen remodels to facility upgrades and general maintenance. In 2024, we were honored to be chosen by Andersen Construction as their community giving project, resulting in a significant facility updates and a facelift to the interior of our buildings. Their partnership continues, and they will also be building a new covered pavilion in 2026.
History of Our Campus
The Blaine Air Force Station was established in 1951 as part of the United States’ early- warning radar network during the Cold War. Perched near the Canadian border and the Salish Sea, it played a key role in monitoring the Pacific Northwest airspace for potential incoming aircraft. Airmen stationed here worked around the clock tracking radar data and communicating with other defense sites to ensure national security. Although its primary mission was national defense, the station was designed as a fully functioning post, equipped with facilities to support those living on-site. It even included a commissary, hobby shops, and a small two-lane bowling alley, which still exists today and is enjoyed by Camp Horizon campers. Advancing radar and monitoring technology eventually consolidated operations into fewer locations, and the Blaine Air Force Station was decommissioned in 1979. The land was later repurposed into Bay Horizon Park, where it now serves a very different, and much more joyful, purpose as the home of Lions Camp Horizon.
Volunteering at Camp Horizon is one of the highlights of my summer. The campers and staff are so enjoyable to be around. The smiles and laughs from all are good for the soul.