Sharon Rose Miller, a leader in social work and community service, has dedicated her career to advocating for individuals with special needs. She is the founder of Trailways Camps in Fort Myers Florida, which provides camping experiences for adults with special needs and their families, fostering social, emotional, and spiritual growth while offering respite for caregivers.
Ms. Miller’s professional journey is marked by significant leadership roles. Alongside her role as the founder of Trailways Camps, she has also served as the vice president and secretary for the organization since 2022. Additionally, she is the founder of the Robert V. & Benjamin G. Miller Fund, which has been providing scholarships to enable campers to attend Trailways Camps since 2007. Ms. Miller’s expertise in understanding the hearts of individuals with developmental and other disabilities has been instrumental in translating these insights into practical solutions.
Prior to her current roles, Ms. Miller served as the chief executive officer of Easterseals Central Texas for four years, where she oversaw programs supporting individuals with disabilities. Her earlier career includes serving as deputy director at the State Department of Civil Rights in 1995 and as chief executive officer of the Monroe County Community Mental Health Board System from 1982 to 1992. Ms. Miller’s dedication to community mental health earned her the Outstanding Leadership in Community Mental Health award in 1994, a standout moment in her career.
Ms. Miller prepared for her career by pursuing a higher education, earning a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Michigan State University in 1965 and a Master of Social Work from the School of Social Work at the University of Michigan in 1971. Additionally, she is a licensed social worker. Ms. Miller dedicates her time to several civic-minded organizations, including serving as liaison for the Spanish Speaking Commission and chair of the Michigan Women’s Commission. She is also associated with the Lions Clubs International Foundation and serves as director of women’s ministry at her community church.
Reflecting on her path, in 2007, Ms. Miller and her husband established Trailways Camps as a heartfelt tribute to their son, who tragically passed away due to a rare disease compounded by multiple disabilities. Devastated by their loss, they sought a meaningful way to honor his memory while making a positive impact in the lives of adults with special needs. Their journey began in Texas, where they created a donor-advised fund through a local community foundation, a move designed to facilitate their mission. Recognizing the importance of expertise in the field of disabilities, they began inviting grant applications from service providers dedicated to supporting individuals with special needs, aiming to foster an inclusive and enriching environment for those they sought to serve.
Ms. Miller notes that the most rewarding aspect of her profession is seeing the joy when someone accomplishes something simple that makes them feel good about who they are. She attributes her success to her mother, who has always provided unwavering support. Growing up as one of 12 siblings, her mother faced tremendous challenges, navigating life with only an eighth-grade education. Despite these hardships, she worked tirelessly to provide for her family, demonstrating resilience and strength at every turn.
Looking to the future, Ms. Miller envisions Trailways Camps as a thriving and sustainable organization. Her mission is to create a lasting impact that honors the memory of Robert and Benjamin Miller, whose lives and experiences played a pivotal role in shaping the vision for the organization.