As the largest nonprofit organization of its kind in Central Florida, everyday Quest assists over 750 people with disabilities in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and Hillsborough Counties. At Quest's Apopka Training Center, he fulfills requests for AAA TripTix, and supplies a great smile and good time to all around him. However, after a long day of working and learning, he likes to have fun. Vernon, who is nearly non-verbal, lives in historic Eatonville with his family. At Camp Thunderbird, Vernon is in his element.
Good times abound, and the days are filled with camaraderie, learning, nature and laughter.
From making crafts to canoeing on the lake to spending several nights in a tent, Camp Thunderbird offers Vernon his yearly barrel of good times. The challenging obstacle course and climbing wall give him the chance to achieve goals and build confidence. His family, who work extra hard during the year to fulfill Vernon's special needs, also get a respite from the daily regime. For two weeks each year, they take a vacation or relax at home, knowing that Vernon is having a great time at Camp Thunderbird. When camp is over each year, Vernon's spirits are again lifted and he returns home to tell his family of the great fun he had and the friends he made.