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Pitch in at MDA Camp

Volunteers looking for a rewarding and memorable experience should consider Muscular Dystrophy Association summer camps. Volunteer counselors are needed to assist young people with muscular dystrophy and related diseases, and help them enjoy a fun−filled MDA summer camp August 16−22 in Spring Valley, NY.

Volunteer counselors must be at least 18 years old and able to lift and care for a young person between the ages of six and 17. Each counselor becomes a companion to a camper with a muscle disease and helps them with daily activities such as eating, bathing and dressing. Counselors also assist campers with recreational activities such as arts and crafts, swimming and fishing.

“MDA summer camp is an incredibly valuable experience for the young people we serve,” said MDA President and CEO Gerald C. Weinberg. “It’s a week during which they build confidence and independence, and participate in a full range of activities that often aren’t accessible to them.”

Volunteer counselors say the experience is a special, life−changing experience for them as well. “They often tell us they come away with far more than they give,” Weinberg said.

At no charge to families, MDA’s summer camp program serves more than 4,300 campers nationwide, with more than 5,100 volunteers making it possible.

In 2008, MDA held 90 camp sessions at 75 locations in 42 states and Puerto Rico. There were 393 medical staff, 372 of whom were volunteers. It costs the Association $800 to send one child to camp.

To obtain a volunteer application or learn about other ways to support MDA’s summer camp program, call your local MDA office at 516−358−1012 or 718−793−1100.