Fire Fighters Make Summer Camp Special for Jerry’s Kids

March 22, 2007 - Youngsters with neuromuscular disease dream about MDA summer camp year-round. It’s a time for fun, laughter and being a kid — and it happens, thanks in large part, to the efforts of the IAFF.

For one week, at some 90 summer camps across the country, MDA campers discover a world free of barriers and full of opportunities. From swimming, horseback riding and wheelchair soccer, to talent shows, crafts and just plain fun, MDA camp offers something for everyone, regardless of physical ability.

Campers — young people ages six to 21 with neuromuscular disease — are paired one-to-one with counselors whose job is to make sure this is “the best week of the year.” Camp counselors are members of the IAFF, MDA’s largest national sponsor and a 52-year partner in the fight against neuromuscular disease.

In addition to giving up a week of personal time to serve as mentors, role models and buddies, IAFF members make it possible for children to attend MDA camp at no cost, thanks to Fill-the-Boot drives and other activities benefiting MDA.

“The fire fighters are amazing heroes to children with neuromuscular disease, not only at summer camp but year-round,” says MDA President and CEO Gerald Weinberg. “We couldn’t do it without their friendship and support.”

While the children enjoy a week of fun and games away from home, fire fighters say they get as much out of camp as the kids do — even more. Lifelong friendships grow from that one week. “We’ll continue to support MDA until the battle against neuromuscular disease is won,” says IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger. “Our members who give of their time at MDA summer camp help make a difference in the lives of countless youngsters, and that’s a tremendous reward in itself.”

To learn more about MDA summer camp, visit www.iaffmda.org or www.mda.org/clinics/camp.