A Steady Hand and a Heart of Gold
As Camp Joy continues its journey forward, we pause with deep gratitude to honor someone who helped steady the wheel and guide us through a season of transition—Mike McGinty, our beloved Interim Executive Director.
Mike’s roots with Camp Joy run deep. A long-standing champion of our mission, Mike previously served as the Executive Director of the Camp Joy Foundation, where he played a pivotal role in advancing our philanthropic efforts. But his legacy doesn’t stop there—he’s remained a loyal alumnus, a dedicated donor, and a bridge-builder within our community. His love for Camp Joy has never been confined to a job title. It’s who he is.
When Mike stepped into the interim role, he brought with him more than leadership—he brought a sense of home. He reminded us of the value of our traditions, of circling up and speaking from the heart. As we navigated this period of change, Mike created space for reflection, connection, and continuity. He helped us return to what grounds us—not just in the way we work, but in how we come together.
Staff meetings moved from fluorescent-lit rooms to the serenity of the outdoors. We gathered beneath the trees, felt the breeze, and remembered what it means to be part of something bigger than ourselves. Mike’s warmth and wisdom gently pulled us from behind our desks and into the spirit of Camp Joy itself.
To know Mike is to witness a rare kind of leadership—one that leads with empathy, humility, and unwavering devotion to people. His passion for Camp Joy, for our campers, our staff, and our broader community, lit a spark in all of us.
Mike, thank you for reminding us who we are—for encouraging us to speak with open hearts and for holding space for both tradition and transformation. Camp Joy is better because of you.
You are forever part of the Joy you’ve helped create.
During what Mike thought was a regular Mug Club meeting, staff gathered for a surprise celebration in his honor. The room was filled with warmth, laughter, and a hand-painted banner created by staff and campers from our Fostering Success and Respite program—a visual hug of gratitude.
Everyone was invited to share something “Ooey Gooey” for Mike—a heartfelt note, a memory, or a moment of impact. It was a beautiful reminder of how Mike’s leadership helped us grow while never losing sight of care and connection..