Twenty-three adult guests with physical and intellectual disabilities are enjoying the experience for a lifetime on the Siena campus.
In the 11th century, the Knights of Malta established a hospital in Jerusalem to care for pilgrims of any religious faith or race. One century later, Pope Paschal II recognized the community as a lay religious order, the Order of Malta. Today, there are more than 13,500 Knights and Dames of the Order of Malta serving the poor and marginalized through humanitarian projects in 120 countries, including the U.S.
The American Association was approved at the request of Pope Pius XI in 1927 and carries out humanitarian services in the spirit of the "Knights Hospitallar" - the original knights of the 11th century. Among the new projects in the U.S., a five-day program for adults with disabilities, hosted by Siena.
"Malta Camp USA is inspired by similar camps run by the Order of Malta in Europe," said Mary Delaney, Malta Camp director. "We focus on a demographic that has aged out of social services provided through school programs. These young adults watched their friends go off to college, but they never had that opportunity. Our guests don't have many chances to meet new friends and explore new activities. Malta Camp USA provides those opportunities."
The camp launched last year at Siena, with 11 guests and 20 volunteers. This year, it's more than doubled in size. Nearly all guests from last year have returned, joined this year by dozens of new friends. Throughout the week, the guests have visited June Farms and Saratoga Springs; they've tackled a downtown Albany scavenger hunt and gone whitewater rafting; and they've spent time just enjoying Siena's campus. In fact, of all the possible destinations in the country, why Siena?
"We were searching for a small Catholic college in the Northeast, and pretty quickly Siena jumped to the top of the list," said Delaney. "We knew Siena could accommodate our special needs and keep our guests healthy, comfortable, and safe. Plus, the mission of Siena aligns with ours. I had a meeting scheduled with Norah Funiciello (director of conference and logistical services). I thought it would be just Norah, but 10 more people from the Siena community showed up. They all wanted to make sure we had what we needed. Plus, our guests have been raving about the food."
Some of the guests had never spent a night away from their parents. This week, they went to college, made lifelong friends, and have experienced opportunities they never imagined possible. It may be 360 days until next year's camp, but the guests and organizers are already planning long-distance events, including a virtual Christmas party.
"Malta Camp means a lot to me. It’s an encouraging and fun community that becomes a family where all of us shine no matter what.
When I have a hard time and need help, I don't feel like my physical and cognitive challenges are a burden. I experience with others my age, authentic and pure compassion, love, kindness, and inclusion. I don’t feel left out or scared I might do something wrong or have a hard time with an activity. We are able to have so much fun and have so many amazing experiences because we are all supported if we need it!"
Malta Camp guest