The PPL Foundation empowers communities by supporting the important work of nonprofit organizations that improve lives. Through the foundation, $1 million in grants was awarded to hundreds of organizations throughout our 29-county territory in 2025. 

Camp Victory is an organization that received an Empowering Communities grant in 2025. It’s more than just a summer camp. Camp Victory is a place where kids can feel like they truly belong. The camp works with partner programs to create a safe, fun experience for children with special needs, giving them opportunities they might not find anywhere else.  

For many campers, Camp Victory is life-changing.  

“A lot of our campers… might be the only one in their school or family who has that disability,” said Kate Stepnick, Executive Director of Camp Victory. “But when they get to Camp Victory, everybody has the same disability or diagnosis.”  

That sense of belonging helps kids build confidence, friendships and lasting memories. In addition to running the camp, Stepnick is also a former camper. 

“I started coming in 1996 to Camp JRA, which is a camp for kids with arthritis,” Stepnick said. “For me, it was the one week of the year that I really felt a part of something and belonged.” 

We are proud to support Camp Victory and the unique programs it offers. Through the PPL Foundation, the company provides funding that helps the camp grow and reach more children. These programs include specialized camps for different medical needs, outdoor activities like biking and paddle boating, and even environmental education. 

PPL’s support also helps ensure the camp can meet the complex medical needs of its campers. From trained staff to accessible equipment, everything is designed so kids can safely enjoy the outdoors.  

“Camp Victory is a really special place,” said Jonah Howe, Regional Affairs Director for PPL Electric Utilities. “The opportunities they provide here are special in the ways they really accommodate different medical needs that other organizations just can’t do.”  

The partnership between PPL and Camp Victory is built on shared values like community, education, and care for others. By working together, they are helping children experience something every kid deserves — a chance to have fun, feel included and just be themselves. 

“What I love most is seeing the kids smile,” Howe said. “I understand that they’re managing different chronic illnesses that don’t give them the opportunity to do that, and here at the camp…they can experience nature and just enjoy their time here.”