We are thrilled to announce the near completion of the Carter Family Center at Camp Fowler—a cutting-edge recreation facility that marks a transformative milestone for Valley Youth House. This exciting development coincides with the 20th Anniversary of Camp Fowler, celebrating two decades of growth, innovation, and community impact.
The Carter Family Center will serve as a dynamic hub for recreation, learning, and connection. Featuring modern amenities and versatile spaces, the center will host programs and activities that foster personal growth, community bonds, and unforgettable memories for the youth we serve. From adventure-based activities and arts to STEM projects and therapeutic programming, this facility will be central to Camp Fowler’s mission to inspire and empower young people.
“Thanks to the generosity of dozens of community partners, Valley Youth House is pleased to be finishing up the construction of the Carter Family Center, which will be open for programming this spring,” shared Christina J. Schoemaker, Senior Vice President of Advancement at Valley Youth House. “We are hosting a Ribbon Cutting on April 16, 2025 at 11AM and we invite the community to join us to see this remarkable new space!”
Chaunice Holley, Mrs. Pennsylvania America 2023, is pictured with several students of the Salvaggio Academy, who attend Camp Fowler programming throughout the school year. As a former camper, Chaunice fondly recalled her summers and meaningful experiences at camp. Her reflections underscored the camp’s transformation with new cabins, a pool, ropes course, and more, making it a year-round haven for youth.
The Carter Family Center’s journey began with a lead gift from Tammy Carter in 2021, following the generous donation of her home in South Carolina. “The vision for the Carter Family Center is to have a recreation and education center to complement our enrichment programs and serve community groups. We seek to expand our programming at Camp Fowler and will now have a dedicated space for the exploration of science, mathematics, art and technology, creative expressions and the experience of color,” Schoemaker added. “Our vision is to create an environment that not only enhances but also promotes a sense of community, self discovery, and confidence for young people.”
Through the leadership of James (Jim) W. Hoolehan, PE of Penntex Construction, Rick Koze of Kay Builders, Inc., and Eric Scheler of Watson Land Company, Valley Youth House broke ground in January 2024. This $2 million project has been made possible entirely by community support.
The Carter Family Center’s construction is a testament to the unwavering support of our community and partners. From past campaign contributors to current supporters, we extend our deepest gratitude for championing our mission. This shared dedication to young people’s welfare is what propels Valley Youth House forward.
Tammy Carter
Penntex Construction Co., Inc.
Bryan Lieberman, BEI Electrical
Patrick and Betsy Schamberger
Salvaggio Family Foundation
4 Winds Concrete, Inc. & West Truckers Franchise, LLC
Langan Engineering & Environmental Services, LLC
Steve & Jeanne Follett
James Hardie Building Products Inc.
Ryan Mushko, David Mushko & Doug Frank, Levan Associates, Inc.
J. Rockwood & Associates, Inc.
Unified Door & Hardware Group, LLC d/b/a Door Supply of New Jersey, Inc.
Jeff Detwiler, New Enterprise Stone & Lime Co., Inc.
Service Electric Cable TV & Communications
Cope Commercial Flooring and Interiors, Inc.
The Edgewood Company (EDGEWOOD)
John A. Kortvely Geologist, Inc.
Overhead Door Company of Allentown
Phillips & Tosco Developers, LLC
Gatti Morrison Construction Service Inc
Kristin Moeser
As we celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Camp Fowler, the Carter Family Center stands as a reminder to what is possible when a community comes together. We eagerly await the joy, learning, and connections this new facility will inspire. Stay tuned for updates on the Carter Family Center’s progress, and join us in celebrating this incredible milestone. Here’s to the next chapter of Camp Fowler!
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