MDA SUMMER CAMP “THE BEST WEEK OF THE YEAR”

NEW YORK, July 17, 2007 —- MDA in Manhattan is searching for summer camp volunteers who are looking for a rewarding and memorable experience and are available from August 18-22. Volunteers are needed to help approximately 60 children and young adults (ages 6-21) from the tri-state area that have been diagnosed with a neuromuscular disease experience “the best week of the year” at the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s Summer Camp located in Spring Valley, NY.

Volunteers, who must be at least 18 years old are paired with a camper and help them with their daily activities such as eating, bathing, and dressing. In addition, they participate in recreational activities such as arts and crafts, swimming, and horseback riding. Counselors are provided with excellent practical experience which makes this the perfect opportunity for premed, physical and occupational therapy and social work students and teachers

“Kids look forward to MDA summer camp all year because for one week they get to be in an environment where having muscular dystrophy is the norm, not the exception.” said MDA Health Care Services Coordinator Sophie Rivera. Sophie also noted that volunteer counselors often describe camp as a magical place where lifetime friendships and memories are made.

At no charge to families, MDA’s
summer camp program serves more than 4,000 campers nationwide in some 90 weeklong sessions. Last year, over 4,700 volunteers helped make this all possible.

To obtain a volunteer application or learn about other ways to support MDA’s summer camp program, call Sophie Rivera at 212-689-9040 or email her at srivera@mdausa.org.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association is a dedicated partnership between scientists and concerned citizens aimed at conquering neuromuscular diseases. MDA is one of the world’s leading national health agencies, fostering research and patient care. MDA’s programs are funded almost entirely by the voluntary contributions of concerned individuals and cooperating organizations.

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