My name is Meg Elliott, and I am one of the directors of the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s summer camp programs. Our program is currently seeking volunteers, and I wanted to share information for students who may be interested in service hours and supporting our summer camp program.
MDA Summer Camp offers a unique experience for both campers and counselors.
These week-long residential programs offer children ages 8–17 living with neuromuscular disease a fully inclusive environment where they can express themselves and participate in adaptive summer camp activities designed for all abilities.
Counselors take part in the traditional camp experience alongside campers through activities, games, dances, mealtimes, and more, while also supporting campers’ physical, emotional, social, and personal care needs.
Counselors remain onsite for the duration of the session, and housing and meals are provided.
In addition to bringing joy to campers, this opportunity allows volunteers to gain hands-on experience relevant to careers in physical therapy, occupational therapy, medical professions, education, recreation, and family social sciences while earning volunteer hours. MDA Summer Camp locations are available across the nation. Learn more by watching this short video about MDA Summer Camp or visiting the MDA Summer Camp website.
You can also review the summer camp volunteer recruitment flyer for more details.
While volunteers may apply to any MDA Summer Camp session across the country, the session closest to UW students is:
WA – YMCA Camp Seymour in Gig Harbor, WA
Saturday, June 20 – Friday, June 26, 2026
Volunteer Application: Apply to volunteer for the Camp Seymour session
Volunteer Application Deadline: Saturday, May 9, 2026
Camp Director: Meg Elliott – melliott@mdausa.org
Meg is also available to join a lecture or schedule a brief in-person or virtual presentation to share more details about the summer camp and answer questions.