More than service hours
At the core of Special Camp are relationships—the unique bond formed between campers and their counselors. During each session, every camper is paired with a counselor and asked not to be a therapist or mentor, but to be a friend that supports and encourages.
Forever Friendships
The Special Camp experience is all about making new friends and a lasting impact.
Counselor Break Down
Many summer camp counselors come into the program knowing little or nothing about disabilities—and that’s 100% ok. We understand that there may be fear or nervousness around interacting with a child or teenager with a disability, but each counselor admitted goes through an extensive training seminar. This is intended to educate and empower with necessary information and skills for being a counselor while exploring interpersonal styles, leadership skills, values and ethics, safety procedures, life with a disability, and what it means to be a counselor.
All Around The World
Our counselors come from around the country, with a large percentage from Orange and Los Angeles Counties.
The Next Generation
Most of our summer camp counselors are high school students, although some college students and professional adults participate as well. Applicants must be high school age or older to apply.
Passion > Experience
Experience is not needed to be a counselor. All we ask is a passion for change, dedication to the program, and a willingness to learn.
tuition
Summer camp counselors have a $125 fee to participate in each session. The fees help to underwrite the cost of activities, transportation, training and management of the camp. Scholarships are available to those who qualify.
You’ve got this
Being a counselor is a solely volunteer-based position, which allows our team to use the hours they spend at Special Camp toward the community service requirement at their school, church, or other organizations. Prospective counselors apply for up to two sessions pending availability, and after completing the application will interview with a member of the Special Camp staff.
News & Updates
2023 Applications
2023 Camper and Counselor Applications are NOW available! Important documents: Camper Information Pages 2023 Counselor Information Pages 2023 Informed Consent...