When Charles and Paul first arrived at Variety Adventure Camp as children, they were looking for a place where they could simply be themselves.
Today, they’re helping create that same experience for the next generation of Variety Kids.
For the twin brothers, camp wasn’t always a given. Born prematurely and later diagnosed with autism, and autism with ADHD, navigating traditional camp environments wasn’t always easy. Loud noises, busy spaces, and unfamiliar situations could quickly become overwhelming, making many childhood experiences feel just out of reach.
Then they found Variety.
From the very beginning, Variety Adventure Camp offered something different. Instead of asking Charles and Paul to adapt to the environment around them, camp adapted to them. Counselors understood their sensory needs, embraced their individual personalities, and created a space where they felt safe, supported, and included.
Year after year, camp became a place where they built confidence, tried new experiences, formed friendships, and discovered what it felt like to truly belong. As they grew, so did their confidence; not only in camp, but in themselves.
Eventually, that confidence inspired them to return to Variety Adventure Camp in a new role: camp counselors.
Now, they’re the ones welcoming campers, offering encouragement, and helping children discover that same sense of belonging that once changed their own lives.
“Variety didn’t just give us a place to belong—it helped us become leaders,” Paul shared.
Their lived experiences allow them to connect with campers in ways that can’t be taught. They understand what it feels like to navigate sensory challenges, try something new, or simply need someone who “gets it.” That understanding helps them meet each camper exactly where they are.
This summer looked a little different for the brothers.
While Charles returned to Adventure Camp as a counselor, Paul spent seven weeks at the prestigious Interlochen Arts Camp in Michigan, performing in a production of Romeo and Juliet. It’s an opportunity he credits, in part, to the confidence he built through Variety’s performing arts programs.
Growing up, Paul participated in Variety’s theatre, chorus, and dance programs, discovering a love for performing while building confidence both on and off the stage. Those experiences helped prepare him for opportunities like Interlochen, where he was able to continue pursuing his passion alongside talented young performers from around the world.
Although he missed serving as a camp counselor this summer, Paul is already looking forward to returning to Variety as a counselor during Winter Camp this December.
Meanwhile, Charles spent his summer creating meaningful moments with campers of his own.
When asked what he enjoyed most about this year’s camp, his answer reflected exactly what made his own experience at Variety so special.
“The thing I enjoyed the most about camp was experiencing new situations for many campers with them, such as being at camp for the first time! I also enjoyed seeing my campers have fun with the activities and the other campers!”
When asked what Variety means to him, Charles summed up the heart of the organization better than anyone else could.
“Variety means a place where no one is ‘less than’ someone else. It’s a place where a big family of sorts can have fun doing activities like art or go swimming or skating. Camp means a place where everyone has a shot. No one is denied an opportunity to do something because of who they are. Variety is a place where everyone belongs and recognizes the value in everyone, no matter who you are.”
Charles and Paul’s story is a reminder that the impact of Variety doesn’t end when camp is over, a piece of equipment is delivered, or a program session concludes.
Sometimes, that impact grows over years. It helps a child discover confidence. It helps them find their voice. It opens doors to new opportunities. That’s the power of investing in children over time.
Sometimes, it brings them right back to camp, not as the child who once needed support, but as the leader ready to provide it for someone else.
Support children like Charles and Paul in discovering their confidence, and make opportunities possible.