Pennsylvania State Police Troop L once again hosted their annual Sunny Day Camp on Saturday at Camp Manatawny, bringing together children and adults with special needs from Berks, Lebanon, and Schuylkill counties for a day of activities with first responders.
The program, which mirrors the structure of Camp Cadet but is tailored specifically for individuals with intellectual or physical disabilities, offered participants the chance to explore equipment, interact with law enforcement, and take part in hands-on demonstrations.
“This year we probably have just over 70 campers,” said Trooper Rush Stehlin, who helped organize the event. “When it’s all said and done, total people in attendance, I’d say a safe estimate would be maybe 160 or 170 somewhere in that ballpark. But yeah, everyone’s having a really wonderful time.”
The day began with static displays featuring a wide range of agencies and resources. Campers explored PSP patrol units, drones, a helicopter, the bomb squad, K-9 teams, and SWAT vehicles. Local fire companies, EMS crews, and search and rescue teams also participated.
“Basically anything you can imagine, we brought,” Stehlin said. “Everything that people are going to encounter when they see first responders in Berks, Lebanon, and Schuylkill County.”
Afternoon ride-alongs
Following a catered lunch, participants joined troopers for ride-alongs in marked patrol cars. Campers were able to activate lights and sirens, ask questions, and even roleplay mock police activities.
“That gives the campers an opportunity to really become comfortable with the troopers,” Stehlin explained. “It’s a really good opportunity for us to develop a relationship with the people that we serve and to give back to our community, which means a lot to our agency.”
Statewide program
Sunny Day Camps are held across Pennsylvania’s 16 state police troops, supported by the Pennsylvania State Troopers Association, Camp Cadet boards and local partners. The initiative was created in 2016 by Trooper Samantha Minnucci, who was inspired by her brother Gabriel, who was born with special needs.
Like past years, attendees wore shirts featuring the camp logo with Gabriel’s initials “GM” alongside it.
New features this year
The 2025 camp also introduced several new activities and displays. Tow truck companies joined for the first time, giving campers a chance to climb into equipment and learn about roadside safety. A water rescue team was also added, offering demonstrations on specialized search-and-rescue operations.
In addition, organizers brought in new vendors with interactive activities, including face painting, crafts such as birdhouses and bookmarks, and even archery sets provided by Cabela’s. “It’s very interactive,” Stehlin said. “It’s not just sit back and have someone talk at you. The campers get to spray the fire hose, touch the helicopter, pet the dogs — things like that. We’re going to try to continue to evolve and grow every year.”
Building connections
When asked why it was important for him to be part of Sunny Day Camp each year, Stehlin said it comes down to reaching people who need it most.
“You know, I’ve kind of found that working within this position, my goal is to reach out to underserved members of our community and basically develop a relationship with them,” he said. “Statistically speaking, the demographic that attends this camp is more likely to encounter law enforcement. So it’s important for me to help educate not only the public, but to educate the first responders on how we can work together. Because we all want the same things in this society. It feels very good to give back and to help both sides.”
