Tom Wilson Memorial Fund sends Manitou clients to Camp Friedenswald

Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 3:19 PM

By Staff report

The Tom Wilson Memorial Fund, a fund of the Fulton County Community Foundation, recently awarded a $600 grant to the Manitou Training Center to support summer camp opportunities.

The Manitou Training Center is a nonprofit organization committed to providing educational services for individuals with developmental disabilities in Fulton County. The center offers a welcoming space where clients can explore their creativity, discover new hobbies, build friendships, volunteer in the community, and engage in a wide range of meaningful local experiences.

This September, several deserving clients will attend Camp Friedenswald, a serene retreat nestled in the woods of Cassopolis, Michigan. During their three-day stay, they’ll enjoy over 350 acres of hiking trails and lakeside activities, including swimming, boating, meditation, crafting, and games. This retreat offers a valuable opportunity to connect with nature and take a break from the routines and stresses of daily life.

“What is truly unique about Camp Friedenswald is that it allows our clients a sense of freedom that they may not always, or ever, get to experience in their day-to-day lives,” says Jessye Gilley, VP of Mission Advancement for the Marshall-Starke Development Center. “Whether it’s swimming or hiking, they’re able to connect with nature and embrace their sense of individuality, while at the same time creating a meaningful time of rest for their caregivers. Altogether, camp costs our organization roughly $12,000 to $15,000 each year. While we ask each participant to contribute $120, no one is ever turned away due to financial hardship. We’re always looking for individuals and businesses to help us continue this tradition, and we’re thrilled that the Northern Indiana Community Foundation has joined us in making this years’ experience possible!”

Established in 2006, this fund honors the legacy of Tom Wilson, a local advocate for education and agriculture. His passion for curiosity and nature lives on through programs like these that inspire learning and exploration.

To learn more about the trip or the Manitou Training Center’s ongoing efforts, visit the Manitou Training Center Facebook page or call 574.936.9400.