In the words of Fra' Andrew Bertie, the former 78th Grand Master of the Sovereign Order of Malta, the International Summer Camp is "the primary work of the Order's young people," and it continues to be a significant part of the lives of our volunteers and guests even in the present day.
The 40th Order of Malta International Summer Camp will be hosted at Castle De Berckt, which is located near De Maas in the castle village of Baarlo, in Limburg's magnificent hilly scenery.
The Netherlands are delighted to welcome you to this year's camp!
- Overnight itinerary of activities, including enjoyable trips and onsite programs.
- (Ages 18 - 35)
- Dates: August 10 - 17, 2025
- Camp location: De Berckt 1, 5991 PD Baarlo, Netherlands.
- Deadline for Application Submission: March 31st.
It was in the year 1984 that the very first International Order of Malta Camp was established, and it was situated in the country of Austria. At the event, there were fifty people represented from five different nations who came together to take part.
From that point on, every summer. Over five hundred young people with disabilities and their volunteer assistants from twenty-five different countries throughout Europe and across the world have joined the camp in recent years.
Our Values
Spirituality
Through the use of mass and times of reflection that are connected to the spiritual subject of the camp, we provide our visitors and the people who are helping us an opportunity to pray and reflect on the spirituality of the camp.
Inclusion
Language and cultural obstacles do not prevent friends from being formed. By taking part in activities, participants will obtain a better understanding of the many cultural backgrounds represented there. A worldwide community of young people with disabilities is formed via these relationships.
Lifetime Opportunity
Removing limitations on what guests with disabilities are capable of doing is the goal. Through our adventures, we challenge the norms that dictate what is expected of disabled youth, whether it's a trip to Amsterdam, sporting events, Christophe's Cup, or other camp-based activities.
Join Federal Association - U.S.A. Team at the 40th International Order of Malta Summer Camp!
Are you a Guest or a Volunteer? Nice to meet you!
Applications are available for both Guests with developmental differences and Volunteer Helpers (ages 18 - 35). If you are or know of someone who would like to participate as a Guest or Volunteer, please direct them to apply. We look forward to receiving your applications and hope to see you at the 40th International Order of Malta Summer Camp in the Netherlands!
Guest
Young adults are provided with round-the-clock care by volunteer assistants around the same age, which often results in the formation of friendships that last a lifetime.
The camp will be staffed by international medical specialists, including doctors and nurses, who will attend to the guests' health concerns.
Volunteers
Volunteers: Young adults who accompany Guests, offering one-on-one support.
Medical Staff: Licensed medical professionals who assist in responding to medical needs of participants.
Want to Support Us?
Donations will be used to cover our guests' expenses for "The 40th International Malta Summer Camp - Federal Association, U.S.A." travel and registration. We are completely reliant on contributions.
You can make a financial contribution through the Order of Malta Federal Association, U.S.A.
More information about us; Order of Malta Federal Association, U.S.A.
Team U.S.A. Leadership
Richard A. Mena
Contact Information
Team U.S.A. Leadership - Federal Association
The 40th International Malta Summer Camp - Netherlands
WhatsApp: +1 (614) - 687 - 2611
Email: usateamleadership@gmail.com
1730 M Street, NW | Suite 403 | Washington, D.C. 20036
What People Say
"Volunteering at the 2023 Order of Malta International Summer Camp in Belgium was a life-changing experience. The week carefully curated a fun and wholesome entertainment prioritizing, faith and fellowship. My role in Team USA allowed me to connect with every guest, ensuring they felt not just welcomed, but genuinely thrilled about their time at the summer camp. Each activity, from our explorations in Brussels, Waterloo, and Antwerp to the exhilarating roller coaster rides at the Walibi theme park, was memorable. Yet, the highlight for me was undoubtedly our collective performance at the talent show. The shared sense of teamwork and camaraderie during that moment made it a standout highlight. One of the most heartening aspects was getting to know people from all corners of the globe, both guests and fellow helpers." ~ Team U.S.A. Volunteer
"It's a fantastic chance for me to reconnect with old friends, engage in things I wouldn't normally have the chance to do, and spend time with so many wonderful and supportive volunteers." ~ Guest
"Camp was amazing! I love working with our guests because though we may have better abilities, they are masters at the art of living." ~ Team U.S.A. Volunteer
"The most beautiful part of International Camp is the edification of humanity. Campers and Helpers (as I was) gathered from all over the world. Whether giving a friendly smile, sharing a meal, dancing at the disco, or praying at Mass: we did so together in the community. Many of these whom I served are my contemporaries, which was sobering and humbling to reflect on - a reminder that all life (even with disabilities) is a precious gift." ~ Team U.S.A. Volunteer
"Volunteering at the 39th International Order of Malta Camp in Switzerland/Liechtenstein as part of a team of 26 individuals provided an exceptional opportunity to make a significant effect. By aiding guests and ensuring they had the finest time of their lives, I was able to provide amazing experiences for people with disabilities while also developing an atmosphere of inclusion and joy. Interacting with 22 different countries and over 550 participants motivated me to embrace the camp's aim of positively impacting the lives of those around me. It demonstrated the enormous connections we can make through compassion, dedication, and shared purpose." ~Team USA Volunteer
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