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Counselors Bring the World to Sunnyhill

They come from countries around the globe, drawn from many cultures to a very special place—Sunnyhill Adventures.

Never mind that Dittmer isn’t the most exciting glamorous place in the America. Here at the CEC, we know that Sunnyhill is right at the heart of things.

This year, there are almost 30 counselors working with adults and children at camp.  Their backgrounds vary, but most have an interest and training in either health care or education, especially for people with special needs. Some are exploring new career avenues.  Others want to learn about America. All want to give back to community and help people with special needs.

“I want to challenge myself,” said Vanessa Nelson, 22, from Sydney, Australia. “I want to have a life experience, and I’m thinking about a career change. I would like to run a camp one day.”

Becky Williams, is from Birmingham, England.  Although just 18, she already has quite a bit of experience working with people with disabilities. Her mother works in a special needs school and Becky is already qualified to work one to one with those with disabilities. 

“I think I’ll stay at that level now, and perhaps later become a teacher,” Becky said.

Douglas Padial, 28, already has a profession. Back home in São Paulo, Brazil, he is a pharmacist. He came to Sunnyhill because he has helped those with physical disabilities and those who are blind in the past; and he loves to help people, he says.

Douglas also wants to learn more about America and its culture, and he knows at Sunnyhill he will get a taste of other cultures as well.

“I can know people from around the world,” Douglas said.

Ramy Mosad, 26, is from Egypt, and he is studying to be a doctor. He came a part of service to his church and to help people with disabilities.

“I want to be helpful and useful to those with special needs. I want to see them smiling and loving.” He also hopes to have fun, a good experience and make new friends.

Counselors say so far the summer has been exciting and they have come together quite smoothly as a team.