Trailer for the upcoming Order of Malta International Summer Camp 2026 in Spain.

The 41st Order of Malta International Summer Camp will take place at the historic Castillo de Javier in Navarra, Spain. This remarkable fortress, set against the region’s dramatic mountain landscape, offers an inspiring setting for the 2026 gathering.

The Castle of Javier is not only an architectural landmark but also the birthplace of St. Francis Xavier, the renowned missionary and co-founder of the Jesuit Order. The complex—comprising a fortress, basilica, and former school—embodies a unique blend of cultural heritage, spiritual significance, and natural beauty.

Malta Camp 2026 will bring participants together in this extraordinary location, creating an unforgettable experience grounded in history, community, and service.

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.

Breaking Barriers

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 41th International Order of Malta Summer Camp!

Are you a Guest or a Volunteer? Nice to meet you!

Applications are now open for Guests with developmental differences and for Volunteer Helpers (ages 18–35) for the 41st International Order of Malta International Summer Camp. Volunteers may come from medical or non-medical backgrounds, and can also include members of the clergy who wish to take part in a week of service, fellowship, and faith-centered community.

If you are—or know someone who is—interested in participating, we encourage you to apply. Guests will experience a supportive, inclusive environment designed to foster friendship, confidence, and unforgettable memories. Volunteers play a vital role in assisting with daily activities, offering companionship, and helping create a meaningful and uplifting experience for all participants. Medical volunteers, non-medical volunteers, and clergy each contribute uniquely to the well-being, care, and spiritual support of the camp community.

Please direct anyone interested to submit an application. We look forward to receiving your applications and hope to welcome you to the 41st International Order of Malta Summer Camp for a truly impactful week of service, joy, and international fellowship.

Guest Participation – Who We Are Looking For

We welcome young adults with developmental differences who are eager to experience a week of community, joy, and international friendship. Ideal Guests are individuals who benefit from a supportive environment and who are excited to engage in activities that promote social connection, personal growth, and shared adventure.

Guests may come from a wide range of backgrounds and abilities. Some may be attending a program like this for the first time, while others may have participated in similar camps before—both are equally welcome. The most important qualities are openness, a willingness to participate, and an interest in being part of a diverse, international family for the week.

Each Guest is paired with volunteer helpers who provide companionship and round-the-clock support, ensuring comfort, safety, and personalized care throughout the camp. We encourage applications from individuals with varying levels of independence. Whether a Guest requires extensive hands-on assistance or simply benefits from guidance and encouragement, our volunteer team and medical staff are prepared to meet their needs.

Volunteers – Who We Are Looking For

Volunteers are the backbone of Malta Camp, and we are currently forming Team USA, a dedicated group of young adults who will represent the United States on the international stage. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds, including:

  • Non-medical volunteers who bring energy, compassion, and a willingness to serve
  • Medical volunteers such as doctors, nurses, EMTs, and healthcare students who can provide professional support when needed
  • Members of the clergy who wish to offer spiritual guidance, pastoral care, and a faithful presence throughout the week

Volunteers have joined Team USA from across the entire country—stretching from California to New York, and many places in between. This diversity of backgrounds, skills, and experiences enriches our team and reflects the spirit of unity and service that defines the Order of Malta.

As a volunteer, you will accompany and support Guests with disabilities or special needs throughout the entire week. Each volunteer is paired or assigned to a Guest, providing one-on-one assistance, encouragement, and friendship from morning until evening. This responsibility is central to the camp’s mission: ensuring every Guest is able to participate fully and experience the joy, dignity, and community that Malta Camp is known for.

Volunteers assist with a broad range of needs—mobility, communication, personal care, and engagement in activities and excursions. You will take part in every aspect of the camp alongside your Guest, offering stability, companionship, and authentic human connection. It is an immersive, unforgettable experience that forms lifelong friendships and leaves a profound impact on both volunteers and Guests.

Want to Support Us?

Donations will be used to cover our guests' expenses for "The 41th 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 41th International Malta Summer Camp - Spain

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