Our History

The Fowler Center was founded by Jack and Reta Fowler in 1957. Jack, who has Cerebral Palsy, firmly believed in the independence and self-esteem that can be fostered by recreational experiences.

“Camping provided me with the experiences of learning the art of independence and the meaning of fellowship. It helped me recognize new reverence for the quality of self-esteem and how it may best be used in the service of others.” -Jack Fowler

The Fowler Center has come a long way from their first summer with only nine campers in Brighton, MI.  Expanding attendance necessitated not one but two location changes to facilitate the increasing number of campers enrolling.  Advances in education and awareness changed the focus of the organization from a purely “camping” experience to a total outdoor recreational facility.  The scope of the camp too has changed from a summer-only experience to a year-round program.

Though much has changed, The Fowler Center’s commitment to progress and service has not.  Today, The Fowler Center is poised and ready for yet another step into the future. Jack Fowler’s perspective is this: “It really isn’t so great a challenge when you think of all that has been accomplished over the years on behalf of disabled children, youth and adults who constantly seek to find solace and reward in the outdoors. I have no fear or hesitation that we should embark upon our most ambitious feat to date to keep the standards high and deliverance of our programs top priority. We have the faith to know that our mission is sound and our purpose resolute. We have done it before and TOGETHER WE CAN do it again.”