Follow Daniel as He Takes on a Second Summer at Camp Via West

Summer camp isn’t just about days by the lake and campfires, it’s about discovering your own potential while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. 

In our new documentary “Happy Via West” we follow Daniel, a returning camp counsellor from the UK, as he steps into his second summer at Camp Via West, a special needs summer camp that celebrates inclusion, compassion and human connection. 

From the very first day, you see that this isn’t your typical summer job, it’s a life-changing adventure where counsellors support campers with a wide range of abilities to explore, grow and just have fun in an environment that adapts to them!

Working at a special needs summer camp like Camp Via West means you’re part of something bigger than the usual summer experience. These camps are tailored to campers of all ages with physical, developmental, emotional and learning needs, offering adaptive activities, therapeutic experiences and supportive teams. 

Special needs summer camps provide an inclusive setting where every camper can enjoy hiking, crafts, sports and community events - all designed around what works best for each individual. For counsellors like Daniel, the joy of seeing a camper achieve something new or simply feel accepted is just as memorable as the friendships and laughter shared with other counsellors.

The video also gives an honest look at the ups and downs of summer camp life. Alongside the laughter and high-energy moments, it shows what it’s really like to feel homesick, push through tough days and learn how to support campers when things feel challenging. Being a camp counsellor at a special needs summer camp isn’t always easy, but that’s what makes it so rewarding. The film captures how those difficult moments often lead to the strongest bonds, the biggest personal growth and a deeper understanding of yourself and the campers you care for.

Becoming a camp counsellor at a summer camp in the U.S. through AmeriCamp doesn’t just give you a summer job - it opens doors to real personal and professional growth. You’ll return home with new confidence, leadership skills and a network of friends from all over the world. Supporting campers at a special needs summer camp is deeply rewarding - you’re helping create experiences that families treasure and campers remember forever. That’s the magic of Camp Via West and other camps AmeriCamp works with: they’re places of belonging, joy and genuine human connection.

If this story inspires you, watch the “Happy Via West” video and see for yourself what a summer as a camp counsellor at a special needs summer camp can be like:

Ready to take the next step? Sign up with AmeriCamp today and start your own unforgettable summer camp journey.

‍