At PA Lions Beacon Lodge Camp, Camp Felicity is designed for individuals with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities who thrive in structured, supportive, and sensory-rich environments. With a 1:4 counselor-to-camper ratio and a focus on routine, empathy, and meaningful participation, the program gives every camper the chance to be seen, heard, and valued in their own way.

Trevor, a 36-year-old camper who communicates through gestures, rhythms, and smiles, arrived at Camp Felicity with his plush frog “Ribbit” and his green music-note bandana ready for adventure. Known for his joyful drumming, deep empathy, and his signature “ready signal”- two claps and a big smile- Trevor’s story shows how leadership can shine through presence, consistency, and the simple language of joy.

Sunday Arrival: Speaking Without Words

Thirty-six-year-old Trevor stepped out of his family transport van at Beacon Lodge Camp, clutching his plush frog toy “Ribbit” and wearing his favorite green bandana with musical notes. With moderate to severe intellectual disability, Trevor didn’t use spoken words, but his bright eyes and gentle smile communicated volumes about his excitement for this new adventure.

“Trevor was practically bouncing with anticipation,” recalls his mother. “He’d been carrying that camp bandana around for weeks, and we knew he understood something special was about to happen.”

Camp Felicity was specifically designed for individuals like Trevor – people who needed significant support but deserved meaningful experiences and community connections. The 1:4 counselor ratio ensured Trevor would have the close attention he thrived with while still experiencing independence and growth.

Counselor Maria immediately recognized Trevor’s communication style, responding to his gestures and facial expressions as naturally as if he’d been speaking aloud. When Trevor pointed to his picture communication board showing “music,” Maria clapped twice and gave him a big smile – Trevor’s own “ready signal” that would become famous throughout camp.

“We knew right away that Trevor had his own language,” Maria explains. “Our job was to learn it and help others understand how clearly he communicates when you know how to listen.”

Days 1-3: Finding My Rhythm

Camp Felicity‘s structured approach worked perfectly for Trevor. Morning flag-raising became his first leadership role – counselors discovered Trevor had an innate sense of ceremony and timing. He naturally took his place holding the corner of the flag, his serious expression showing everyone else this was an important moment.

“Trevor taught us what respectful participation looked like,” says fellow camper supporter Jamie. “When he got quiet and focused during flag time, everyone else did too. He set the tone without saying a word.”

Trevor’s breakthrough came during the first music hour. While other campers explored various instruments, Trevor made a beeline for the drums. His rhythmic abilities were immediately apparent – not just keeping beat, but creating patterns that others began to follow and join.

“Trevor’s drumming became the heartbeat of our music sessions,” recalls music counselor Sam. “Other campers would wait for his rhythm and then add their own instruments. He was conducting the whole group without realizing it.”

The real magic happened during sensory craft time. Working with feathers, textured materials, and various fabrics, Trevor’s careful, deliberate approach to exploring materials helped counselors understand his deep observational skills.

“Trevor would spend twenty minutes with one textured piece, really understanding it,” Maria observes. “Then he’d help other campers explore it too, showing them through touch and gesture how it felt. He was teaching without words.”

Days 4-6: Becoming the Routine Leader

By the middle of camp, something remarkable had happened – other campers began watching Trevor for social cues and activity timing. His consistent routines and clear non-verbal communication made him a natural leader in structured settings.

During morning gatherings, campers learned that when Trevor gave his two-clap “ready signal,” it was time to focus and begin. His enthusiasm was infectious, and his clear joy in routine activities helped others feel secure and engaged.

“Trevor became our unofficial timekeeper,” laughs counselor David. “He always knew when transitions were coming and would start preparing himself and others. He’d pat his bandana, point to his schedule picture, and give his ready signal. Everyone learned to follow his lead.”

Trevor’s empathy shone during these middle days. When another camper became overwhelmed during a loud activity, Trevor immediately went to his quiet spot by the pond, humming softly. His calm presence and gentle tapping sounds helped the distressed camper find peace.

“Trevor has this incredible ability to sense when someone needs quiet,” Maria explains. “He’ll create this bubble of calm around himself and invite others into it. It’s like he’s saying, ‘Come sit by the water with me and feel better.'”

Days 7-8: Teaching Through Being

The final days of Camp Felicity showcased Trevor’s unique form of leadership. During the camp talent celebration, Trevor’s contribution wasn’t a performance but a demonstration of inclusive participation. His joyful drumming invited everyone to join in their own way.

“Trevor showed us that talent isn’t about being the best at something,” reflects counselor Maria. “It’s about sharing what brings you joy in a way that invites others to find their own joy too.”

Trevor’s proudest moment came when a newer camper who had been hesitant to participate in group activities began copying Trevor’s hand movements during music time. Seeing this connection, Trevor slowed his movements, made eye contact, and waited patiently for his new friend to follow along.

“That moment when Trevor realized he was teaching someone else – his face lit up like sunshine,” recalls David. “He understood that his actions were helping another person feel included and confident.”

When Trevor’s family arrived for pickup, they found him surrounded by campers and counselors who had clearly learned to understand and appreciate his unique communication style. His camp bandana was now decorated with friendship pins from fellow campers, and his picture board showed dozens of new “happy” selections.

Two Years Later: Community Ambassador

Today, Trevor continues to attend Camp Felicity and has become a beloved returning camper who helps orient newcomers. His consistent routines and joyful participation provide stability and welcome for those arriving for their first camp experience.

“Trevor has taught our entire camp community about different ways of communicating and leading,” says Program Director Lisa. “New campers and even new staff learn from watching how Trevor creates inclusion and structure through his presence and actions.”

Trevor’s impact extends beyond camp. His family reports that his confidence in group settings has grown significantly, and he’s become more expressive in his communication at home and in community activities.

“Camp Felicity didn’t change who Trevor is,” his mother reflects. “It created a place where who Trevor is could be fully appreciated and valued. Now he brings that confidence everywhere.”

What Camp Felicity Offers

Trevor’s story illustrates the profound approach that makes Camp Felicityunique:

• Alternative communication support honoring non-verbal expression and individual communication styles
• Sensory-rich programming with activities designed for different processing styles and interests
• Routine-based structure that provides security while encouraging growth and leadership
• Inclusive community where different abilities are valued and celebrated
• Patient, responsive counseling with staff trained to recognize and respond to various communication methods
• Leadership through example where quiet influence and consistent participation are recognized and valued

Camp Felicity serves individuals ages 16+ with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities who benefit from structured environments and individualized support. The program emphasizes meaningful participation, community belonging, and personal growth within each person’s unique communication and interaction style.

The 8-day format allows for relationship building and routine establishment, while the 1:4 counselor ratio ensures individualized attention and communication support for each participant.

Trevor’s Message (In His Own Way)

Trevor’s message comes through his actions: Two claps, a bright smile, and an invitation to join in whatever brings joy. His camp friends translate: “Everyone belongs here. Everyone has something to offer. And sometimes the most important thing you can do is show up with happiness and invite others to be happy with you.”

Want to learn more about Camp Felicity or other Beacon Lodge programs?
Contact us at office@beaconlodge.org or call (814) 542-2511.

Trevor’s story represents the kind of community belonging and leadership development that happens when everyone’s unique communication style is valued and understood.

Curious about Trevor? Meet Trevor here.

Trevor’s story is shared with permission and represents a composite of experiences from Camp Felicity participants over the years. Names and identifying details have been changed to protect privacy while honoring the authentic experiences of our camp community.