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. Camp counselors are members of the IAFF, MDA’s largest national sponsor and a 53-year partner in the fight against neuromuscular disease.

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.”

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.

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.

Click here for MDA's 2008 Summer Camp Program Schedule. To learn more about MDA summer camp, visit www.iaffmda.org or www.mda.org/clinics/camp.