OUR STAFF
MATRISZA ALVAREZ, CAMP DIRECTOR
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Matrisza has been involved with Camp SMILE for over 20 years. She has a Bachelor's degree in Recreational Therapy and has worked with United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile for 10 years. Matrisza has served in almost all of the roles that keep camp going, from counselor to unit leader, assistant director to director. Her knowledge of camp and what is required to keep it going is only beat by her love for Camp SMILE and its mission. When not working, Matrisza enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and pets.
JANA WILLIAMS, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
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Jana has worked at Camp SMILE since 2014, where she started as a counselor then became a unit leader. She brings years of experience working in the special needs community and being involved with programs such as Dance Without Limits. Jana has a Bachelor's degree in Leisure Studies with a concentration in Recreational Therapy from the University of South Alabama. When not at camp, Jana enjoys spending time with her husband and her nieces and nephews.
The Camp SMILE staff consists of up to eight Unit Leaders, each assigned to direct one (or more) of eight groups. The Unit Leaders assist and supervise counselors in all areas of camp life, especially related to camper care, safety, and maintaining a healthy environment. All Unit Leaders have degrees in Special Education, general education, or related fields.
The Camp SMILE staff also includes a minimum of 2 Nurses and 1 Paramedic each week. Our medical staff is on site 24/7 throughout the entire week. All of medical staff are licensed RNs or licensed paramedics and have an extensive background working with individuals with varying disabilities.
