Camp Joy is a Christian co-ed camp serving those with special needs. Established in 1980 by Ann Brice and Francis Sanders (Brice–Sanders Foundation), Camp Joy is a ministry of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church (ARPC). Since the first session in 1980 with 13 counselors and 9 campers, God has blessed the camp with ever-increasing ministry and a vision to match the growth. In 2024, Camp Joy held sessions in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and Virginia, serving hundreds of special needs campers and, indirectly, their caregivers.

The Disabilities Ministry of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America (RPCNA) is seeking to partner with our brothers and sisters in the ARPC and build an increasing awareness of the need for ministry to the disabled within the RPCNA. To that end the committee is seeking individuals who are interested in developing their ministry skills in such a context. The committee, working with the leaders of Camp Joy, is seeking 1–2 young adults (ages 15–22) who would be interested in serving as a counselor at Camp Joy. The qualifications for an individual wishing to be a counselor include the following:

1. A commitment to put Jesus first and oneself last.
2. The commitment to be “present in the moment” for the camper and not be distracted.
3. To exhibit “Joy” in all activities.
4. To give a profession of faith to anyone who might ask.
5. To be physically able to join in all recreational activities as well as other activities.
6. Sensitivity in regard to all disabilities.
7. A willingness to be totally involved.
8. A willingness to be a good and patient listener.
9. A willingness to be pushed out of one’s comfort zone.

The camp provides appropriate medical supervision and staff. A counselor is partnered with one camper. A counselor monitors and helps that camper maintain hygiene and health, helps the camper have the most fun week possible, prioritizes the camper before themselves, and walks alongside the camper in his or her spiritual journey, as they sit under solid biblical teaching.

Further information can be found at the Camp Joy website: CampJoy.net. An application and additional information can be found here: CampJoy.net/applications/counselor-application. There is no cost to be a counselor, but because of the cost of the camp, there is a suggestion that a counselor might do some fundraising/seek donations. RPCNA applicants can contact the Disabilities Ministry Committee for potential support.

2025 Camp Dates and Locations

• Virginia: July 20–25 for counselor; July 21–25 camper
• Florida: Mar 16–21 counselor; March 17–21 camper
• South Carolina: June 14–20 counselor; June 15–20 camper; June 21–27 counselor; June 22–27 camper
• North Carolina: June 7–13 counselor; June 8–13 camper; June 23–July 4 counselor; June 29–July 4 camper; July 5–11 counselor; July 6–11 camper; July 19–25 counselor; July 20–25 camper

Interested parties find testimonials of both campers and counselors and obtain contact information from the video below or at CampJoy.net.