05/11/2026
Press Release:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Camp LIGHT Celebrates Transformative Partnership with Tess Majors Foundation: Expanding Accessibility, Nature Exploration, and Community Connection in 2026
Waynesboro, Virginia — Camp LIGHT is proud to announce the continued impact of its partnership with the Tess Majors Foundation, whose generous support has helped create meaningful new opportunities for individuals with disabilities through two major initiatives: the completion of an accessible wildflower garden pathway and nature observation deck, and the launch of a new Gatehouse Project in 2026.
The Tess Majors Foundation funded the paving of an accessible pathway through Camp LIGHT’s wildflower gardens, leading directly to the barn and activity areas. This smooth, durable pathway ensures that campers who use wheelchairs or have mobility challenges can travel safely and independently to camp programs and experiences.
For Camp LIGHT, inclusion means more than simply opening doors—it means creating spaces where every person can fully participate. The paved pathway removes barriers and allows campers of all abilities to enjoy the beauty of the gardens, connect with friends, and move confidently between activities. It transforms the landscape into one where everyone belongs.
In addition to the pathway, the Foundation also funded the construction of a bird observation deck connected to “Skeeter’s Treehouse.” Overlooking the wildflower garden, this peaceful outdoor learning space gives campers exciting new ways to engage with nature through binoculars, telescopes, microscopes, educational signage, and wildlife observation.
The observation deck reflects a shared belief between Camp LIGHT and the Foundation:
children thrive when they are given opportunities to explore the outdoors, discover the natural world, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the environment.
Some of the educational signage throughout the garden features photographs taken by Tess Majors herself—adding a deeply personal touch to a project inspired by her passions.
Tess Majors was a remarkable young woman whose love for art, nature, photography, music, journalism, and life touched everyone around her. Though her life was far too short, Tess lived with curiosity, creativity, compassion, and joy. She embraced beauty in everyday moments and inspired others to do the same. Her spirit continues to shine through the Foundation established in her name, which works to help children—especially those in small towns and rural communities—discover their passions and unlock their potential.
The heart of the Tess Majors Foundation is simple but powerful: every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, dream, and succeed, no matter where they come from. Whether through music, art, education, or nature, the Foundation is helping create brighter futures for the next generation.
Camp LIGHT saw that impact firsthand last summer when the walking path was completed just before camp began, immediately improving access for campers. This summer, the observation deck and expanded garden experiences will offer even more opportunities for discovery, learning, and wonder.
Now, the partnership continues with a new 2026 initiative: the Camp LIGHT Gatehouse Project.
With support from the Tess Majors Foundation, the Gatehouse Project will enhance safety, accessibility, and community engagement at the Camp LIGHT facility. The project includes the installation of a secure electronic gate system to provide controlled access and help ensure the safety of participants, staff, and visitors.
Additional features will include a designated package delivery drop area to improve operations and reduce disruptions, as well as a marked visitor parking space where guests can safely stop and obtain information about Camp LIGHT programs and services.
The gatehouse area will also feature a community lending library, promoting literacy, resource sharing, and neighborhood connection. Future enhancements are planned to include interactive photo opportunities that create a warm, welcoming first impression for all who visit.
Together, these improvements will strengthen security, improve functionality, and expand Camp LIGHT’s ability to serve both campers and the broader community.
“We are incredibly grateful for the Tess Majors Foundation and their belief in our mission,” said Camp LIGHT director, Kelly Truxell. “Their generosity is helping us build a camp environment where every participant can access nature, feel included, and experience joy. Tess’s legacy is changing lives.”
Through this extraordinary partnership, Tess Majors’ love for life continues to bloom—in gardens, on pathways, through the laughter of children, and in every new opportunity created in her honor.
About Camp LIGHT: Camp LIGHT is a summer day camp operated by Creative Works Farm for children and adults with special needs and at-risk youth. Camp LIGHT provides a safe, inclusive, and fun environment where campers build confidence, develop social skills, and enjoy activities such as horseback riding and animal therapy, swimming, archery, arts and crafts, fishing and nature exploration, and much more. Camp LIGHT is free to participants so that programs are accessible to all, regardless of their financial situation. Learn more about Camp LIGHT by visiting www.creativeworksfarm.org
About Tess Majors Foundation: The Tess Majors Foundation honors the life and legacy of Tess Majors by supporting initiatives that provide young people instruction in music, nature, and the arts, especially in regions of the country where such opportunities may be lacking and programs can have a significant impact. Through advocacy, outreach, and charitable support, the foundation works to create meaningful impact and carry forward Tess’s spirit of compassion, strength, and leadership. Learn more about Tess Majors Foundation by visiting www.tessmajorsfoundation.com
