Trailways Camp has provided overnight camping experiences for adults with special needs and respite for their caregivers in SW Florida since 2012. Following establishment of a board of directors and incorporation as a 501(c)3 in 2021, the organization employed a camp director to manage and oversee camp operations. A camp office was opened in June of 2024 at 1177 Causeway Rd., Sanibel creating a home base for the operational and advisory teams.

On March 19, we announced the appointment of Jamie Senkeleski as Executive Director. After three highly successful years of leading camp operations, including the 40th camp session, Jamie is ready to move into an executive leadership role, said Sharon and Jerry Miller, Trailways Camp Founders. She will be leading the way forward, as the organization seeks to Bridge the Gap for adults with special needs as they exit special education services and seek participation in community life.

“An estimated 1500 adults aged 18-21 exit from Lee, Hendry, Glades, Charlotte and Collier county’s special education programs yearly. Where do they go? Day

activities service providers have limited spots available for new entrants. Job carving, training, and location services are minimal. Social programs available through churches, community organizations, and nonprofits are limited.

Respite services are sparse, and overnight respite is almost nonexistent for parent caregivers – often into their 70s, 80s, and beyond. This gap extends outward throughout the state of Florida. Working with community partners to enable creative, efficient and effective resource alignment is a high priority.”

Jamie is representing Trailways Camp as a member of the Charitable Foundation of the Islands; as a member of the SW Florida Community Foundation, dba Collaboratory’s Health and Wellness Coalition taskforce; as a member of the Lee County Schools Transition Council; and as a participant in the Lee, Hendry, Glades United Way provider network collaborations.