We are much more than a summer camp. We’re a safe haven where teens and adults with disabilities can unwind, socialize and step outside their comfort zones by challenging themselves with new experiences. We create wonderful memories and build friendships that last a lifetime. By focusing on the “CAN” instead of the “CAN NOT” we build confidence and self-esteem. Abilities, not disabilities, guide us with FUN being the priority.
Our Mission
We 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
Respect for the diversity we represent
Inclusive opportunities that welcome individuals of all abilities
Support and cooperation as we work together overcoming challenges
Empower and inspire others to grow and succeed
History
Recognizing that there was a need for recreational activities for adults with developmental and physical disabilities, Camp Horizon was started by the Lynden Jaycees in 1974, That first year there were 17 campers attending the session at the Lynden Fairgrounds. By 1981 the program had grown beyond the Jaycee’s capability to operate and the Lynden Lions Club assumed the leadership, hosting 85 campers that year. Lions Camp Horizon continued to grow and by 1985, we had moved to the former Blaine Airforce Station, now Whatcom County’s, Bay Horizon Park, hosting 130 campers that season.
In 1986, the Camp Horizon Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit, owned by Lions Clubs of District 19H (NW Washington and SW British Columbia), was formed to operate and maintain Lions Camp Horizon and Bay Horizon Park, our home. Over time we grew to having four Base Camps and later added two smaller Adventure Camp sessions. Currently we can accommodate 260 campers spread over our six camp sessions each summer.
Over our 45year history, tens of thousands of hours have been donated by Lions Club members, their friends, families, community supporters, etc. to improve and maintain our campus and grounds. Additionally, thousands of hours have been donated for food service, program and temporary positions to help reduce the cost of operating our summer camp sessions. In 2019, we hosted a nine member Americorps Team for eight weeks during which they undertook a wide variety of building, sidewalk and grounds maintenance activities.
Our Team
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
*Bob Allen, District 19H USA Club Coordination
Patty Allen
Ken Ball
*Pat Brown, Secretary
*Wendy Canessa
Orson Christensen
Lynda Davidson
*Karen Fletcher, Treasurer
*Shawna Gibbs, District 19H Canadian Club Coordination
Gord Graves
Paul Hand
*Sharron Sherfick, Vice President
*Don Webster, President
* Indicates a member of the Executive Committee
Key Staff
Christina “Cheerios”
Camp Director
Christina was named after her cousin who had cerebral palsy. Introduced to the importance of creating inclusive communities from a young age, Christina started volunteering at Lions Camp Horizon when she was only 10 years old. She later began her career at camp in 2012 and worked her way through the assistant counselor, lead counselor, and mentor positions. Christina now serves as our camp director.
During the off-season, Christina works as a paraeducator at a local high school and is studying for her special education teaching certificate. Whether it’s in the classroom or at camp, she’s committed to creating experiences that make learning fun for students and campers alike. Her work as an educator makes her extra mindful when planning activities that are inclusive for all of our campers.
Christina calls camp her “heaven on earth” and got a tattoo of the camp logo to make sure camp is with her wherever she goes.
Eeyore
Assistant Camp Director
“My name is “Eeyore”, and I’ve been working at camp for the last four years. I started at the beginning of my college career as a counselor and was a lead counselor for the last two years. I recently graduated from Western Washington University with a degree in Humans Services. I’m beyond excited to take on the role of Assistant Camp Director. I’ve had an amazing experience at camp and want to ensure that campers and counselors continue to experience that camp magic.”
Bubbles
Lead Counselor
“I’ve worked at Camp Horizon since I was 13 years old. Now being 18, I can say I would not be the person I am today if I never worked here. It has taught me patience, how to be outgoing, and given me lifetime friendships. It is safe to say camp is the greatest thing to have ever happened to me!”
Ernie
Lead Counselor
“I’ve worked at Lion Camp Horizon for three years going on four and it has been the best experience of my life.I have found my passion in life and have made many memories with new friends every year. I’m forever grateful to be staffed at this wonderful summer camp.”
Minion
Lead Counselor
“I’ve worked at Lions Camp Horizon for 2 years and I’m excited to be back for the 2020 season. I’m a recent Western graduate and I love football and hockey. Camp means the world to me.”
Lilac
Lead Counselor
“I have been working at Lions Camp Horizon for three years. Camp has truly changed my life for the better. It is a wonderful environment with great people. I have made so many wonderful memories here and hope to continue making them.”
Bell
Counselor
“Hi, I’m Bell and I worked at Lions Camp Horizon in 2019. What I like to do in my spare time is hanging out with my friends. But out of all the time I spent at camp my favorite part is to see the happy and sad smiles of campers leaving and remembering how much fun we had together.”
Branch
Counselor
“I have worked at camp for two years now. Camp is a place where I feel like I do something good and build lifelong friendships with people. Camp is a place where I get to be away from home, have an amazing time and I get to let go and just enjoy myself with other people. Away from camp I play baseball and I wrestle. I enjoy interacting with other people and getting to know them.”
Ladybug
Counselor
“I like to lend a helping hand when I can. I like to just have fun! My experience with camp so far has been amazing, I have learned so much from working here less than a year! Everyone at camp is so friendly and nice, helpful, caring, and supportive. My favorite activity at camp is the talent show we put on because it’s fun to get silly!”
PomPom
Counselor
“Hello, my name is PomPom! I am a camp counselor and I really love working at Lions Camp Horizon during the summer. I really like the environment that camp creates,and I am always surrounded by amazing positive people. At camp you get to experience so many new things and it’s so fun to meet all of the new counselors and campers.”
Chibi
Counselor
“Heyya! My name’s Chibi and I’m super excited to be returning to camp for my third summer. I love every second I spend at LCH. It’s such a warm and cheerful environment full of amazing people. Can’t wait for the season to start and I hope to see you there!”
Cookie
Food Service Director
Cookie started at Lions Camp Horizon in 2018 in the kitchen and loves feeding everyone. She is the mother to a 27-year-old son and 19-year-old boy/girl twins. She has been married for 21 years and they have 2 beautiful golden retrievers, Penny and Blue. She enjoys camping with her family and friends, making quilts, sunshine, and baking.
Bumper
Resident Caretaker and Rental Coordinator
“My name is Blayne aka ‘Bumper’. My 4-legged buddy is Clyde. I served in the Coast Guard and have been around the world, but this is by far the most rewarding job I have ever done. I consider myself lucky to be part of such an amazing program. Beyond all the camp season tasks, Clyde and I are year-round campers at LCH, maintaining the facilities, grounds and providing support for our rental clients.”
I have worked at Lions Camp Horizon for 3 years. This camp has helped strengthen me and has brought me joy in life.. Camp Horizon has filled me with the warmest memories and has left me with the most wonderful connection with both campers and staff. I love Lions Camp Horizon and all that it does for the special needs community.
Deciding to apply to Lions Camp Horizon was one of my best decisions I have ever made with great friends and amazing people to hang out with. Seeing the campers so happy is truly special. I really wish everyone could experience Lions Camp Horizon.
Camp Horizon has improved my life significantly. I’ve gained incredible experience that no other place will provide and I am grateful for the people I’ve met along my journey with Camp Horizon. I will have lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories that will forever bring me joy.
Being part of Camp Horizon has changed my life completely. I am so thankful to be part of something so inspiring and positively life changing. Both the staff and campers make this place one of the most unique and fun environments I have ever experienced. My favorite summer memories were made at Camp Horizon and I will hold them close forever.