Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Darnell.
Hi Amy, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My path to Clarkston SCAMP has been shaped by both professional experience and personal purpose. I earned my undergraduate degree from University of Michigan and went on to complete my MSW at Washington University in St. Louis. Early in my career, I worked in for-profit education, where my focus was on organization growth and program development. I also gained a clear understanding of what it takes for an organization to be financially successful, something that has proven invaluable in nonprofit work.
After several years, I stepped away from my career to focus on raising my children, Lindsey and Luke. During that time, I volunteered a lot with their schools and sports teams. When began to think about rejoining the workforce, I knew I wanted a professional course that would afford me the opportunity to “do good” and have impact in the world.
Finding SCAMP felt like a natural alignment of both my background and my values. It’s more than a role. It’s an opportunity to contribute to something truly meaningful. SCAMP has been serving individuals with special needs and their families for decades, and being part of that mission has been incredibly fulfilling.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like many nonprofits, SCAMP faces the ongoing challenge of balancing growing needs with limited resources. The demand for our program continues to increase, which is a testament to our impact and the need for our services. Yet, it also means we must constantly think creatively about funding, staffing, and long-term sustainability.
My background in the for-profit sector has shaped how I approach these challenges. Understanding financial health, strategic growth, and operational efficiency has helped me think about sustainability in a more holistic way. I feel I have been given a precious gift and to protect that legacy, I must ensure that SCAMP will continue to serve families not just today, but well into the future. This is my biggest challenge, as well as my greatest responsibility. I am not just maintaining a program – I am building on a legacy.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Clarkston SCAMP is a 501(c)3 founded in 1975. Our mission is to provide a fun, inclusive camp for children and adults with special needs. We provide high-quality summer programming for 5 weeks each summer in which our SCAMPers enjoy field trips, music and art classes, dance parties and talent shows – the list is endless. In our 50 year history, we have achieved a very important goal – we have never turned a SCAMPer away due to financial constraints. Offering a camp such as this is expensive (approximately $2500/SCAMPer), but we ask families to pay only a portion of this cost. Still, 50% of our families would not be able to attend without financial aid. Thus, I fundraise 365 days a year to be able to provide this necessary camp for our SCAMPers.
My work at SCAMP is centered on creating opportunities – for SCAMPers, for families, and for the community to come together in meaningful ways. That includes everything from fundraising and community partnerships to ensuring we are delivering high-quality, impactful programming for individuals with special needs.
A key part of my role is helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of the organization. I’m able to draw on my background in the for-profit sector to think strategically about financial health, growth, and operational effectiveness, while always staying grounded in our mission.
At its core, my work is about stewardship – honoring the legacy of SCAMP while helping to build its future so that we can continue serving families for generations to come. We hit a huge milestone when celebrated our 50th anniversary in 2025. Now my focus needs to be on building the next 50 years.
What makes you happy?
On a personal level, my greatest source of happiness is my family. My husband, Chad, and I have been married since 2003 and watching our children grow into successful young adults, both now in college, has been incredibly rewarding. Seeing them find their own paths and thrive is something I’m deeply grateful for and extremely proud of.
Professionally, I find happiness in knowing that the work I do matters. Being part of SCAMP allows me to contribute to something bigger than myself and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
It’s the combination of those two things—family and purpose—that brings me the most fulfillment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.clarkstonscamp.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clarkstonscamp
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064719339138
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clarkstonscamp/
