DIANE GAYER
Diane Gayer is our executive director and co-founder of Camp Ability. She has worked in the field of recreation and education for over thirty years. She has her undergraduate degree in special education and recreation therapy and a master’s degree in speech therapy. Diane feels that the experience of running Camp Ability has been one of the most rewarding, most challenging, and life-changing. She notes the camp is based on the scripture “we can do all things through Him that gives us strength”. Diane started Camp Ability in 2007 with an occupational therapist assistant to provide a summer program to children in the Haywood County School district. She has worked with varies programs to incorporate children and youth within many counties in the WNC region. The camp won a best nonprofit award last year through WLOS, channel 13. When Diane is not working she can be found outside where she enjoys hiking, camping and fishing with her family.
LISA COOK
Lisa Cook has worked with Camp Ability every summer since 2007. A special education teacher in Haywood County, Lisa has taught students from elementary through high school level. She holds a bachelor degree in Communications from Appalachian State University, and a masters degree in teaching from Western Carolina University. Lisa also works part-time as a fitness instructor and personal trainer at Haywood Regional Health and Fitness, and has taught many formats, including adult and children's fitness. Lisa is the mother of three girls, ages 15, 17 and 20. She is active at her church, teaching Sunday school and as a youth volunteer.