“Pine Tree Camp is Evan’s very favorite place to go.”

That’s how his mom, Jean, describes it. Evan is 25 years old and has been going to Pine Tree Camp for nine years.

“He’s so comfortable there,” she continued. “The environment really lends itself to feeling safe. The staff is friendly and encouraging, and he never feels like he’s under any pressure.”

For parents of adult children going to Pine Tree Camp for the first time, Jean thinks it’s particularly important for them to know they can stay in a family cabin and benefit from the reassurance that can bring.

“It speaks volumes about Pine Tree Camp that they allow parents to stay in the family cabin and be a part of what’s happening,” she said.

Whether parents stay in the family cabin or their child attends camp solo, the week at camp brings much needed respite to families. Jean and her husband look forward to Evan’s week at Pine Tree Camp as much as he does.

“As primary caregivers, my husband and I don’t get breaks. Some years, Evan’s time at Pine Tree Camp is our one and only break. We don’t worry about him at all. We know he’s having fun and is in good hands. We can just relax and not worry. We know he’s okay. We’re so proud of him when he’s at camp.”

The benefits of Pine Tree Camp continue long after the week is over.

“Each year when he comes home, he’s more self-confident. Having a week away from us makes him feel more independent and he has a sense of accomplishment that he did something by himself. He doesn’t get much opportunity to do that. I imagine he will be going to Pine Tree Camp every year for the rest of his life.”