The Muscular Dystrophy Association is searching for summer camp volunteers who are looking for a rewarding & memorable experience. Volunteer counselors are needed to assist young people with neuromuscular diseases and help them enjoy weeklong MDA summer camps across the nation.
Applicants must be at least 16 years old & able to lift & care for a young person between the ages of 6 & 21. Each volunteer counselor becomes a companion to a camper with a neuromuscular disease & helps with daily activities such as eating, bathing & dressing. Counselors will also assist campers with recreational activities such as arts & crafts, swimming & horseback riding.
“Kids look forward to MDA summer camp all year long,” MDA President & CEO Jerry Weinberg said. "Our campers get to experience a world in which all activities are especially adapted to their abilities. MDA summer camp offers a feeling of comfort & freedom, allowing kids to enjoy an environment where having a neuromuscular disease is the norm, not the exception.”
Weinberg noted that volunteer counselors often say camp is a magical & memorable time, which makes them want to return year after year. “It’s such a family environment & a time to make friends for life,” he said. “It truly is the best week of the year.”
At no charge to families, MDA’s summer camp program serves some 4,200 campers nationwide in nearly 80 locations. Last year, almost 5,000 volunteers helped make this possible.
To obtain a volunteer application or learn about other ways to support MDA’s summer camp program, call your local MDA office at (800) 572-1717. More info about summer camp volunteers can be found at mda.org/clinics/camp.
MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 40 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services, & far-reaching professional & public health education.
The Association’s programs are funded almost entirely by individual private contributors.