Male Summer Camp Volunteers Needed

The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is searching for an additional 25 men to fill their camp counselor roster at MDA Summer Camp in Spring Valley, N.Y.

Volunteers must be interested in helping children enjoy a fun-filled, carefree week at MDA Summer Camp. Locally, MDA Summer Camp takes place August 20-26, 2011 at Vision Center on Blindness.

“MDA summer camp is a special week of the year when children with muscle diseases can enjoy themselves in a true peer group where they are able to participate in a full range outdoor activities adapted to their abilities,” MDA Camp Director, Gloria English said. “Besides being great fun, camp helps youngsters grow and develop emotionally and socially— it’s truly the highlight of the year, for both campers and volunteers.” Volunteering at MDA Summer Camp is a rewarding and life-changing experience. The friendships formed and the memories created will last forever.

English explains, “Every camper is matched with their own volunteer counselor for the week. Fortunately, some men from the area have signed up, but we still need 25 more to complete our camp roster. With over 50 boys with muscle disease expected to attend MDA Summer Camp this August, there is a great need for more male volunteers to be their camp counselors for this very special week.”

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, US Citizens and able to lift and care for a young person between the ages of six and 17. A volunteer counselor will have the opportunity to become a close companion to a camper and help them with daily activities such at eating, bathing and dressing. Counselors will also assist campers with recreational activities such as adapted sports, fishing, swimming and arts and crafts.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and far-reaching professional and public health education.

To obtain a volunteer application or learn about other ways to support MDA’s summer camp program, call your local MDA office at (914) 345-5062. Additional information about volunteering at MDA summer camp is available online at www.mda.org/clinics/camp. For more information, contact Gloria English at (914) 345-5062 or genglish@mdausa.org.