Epilepsy Foundation Arizona

Frequently Asked Questions:

When are applications due?

Volunteers need to submit their applications by Friday, March 10, 2023. Interviews will be the week of March 19th.

Camper Registrations are due by Friday, June 2, 2023.

What age do I need to be?

Camp Candlelight is for youth entering 2nd Grade - Senior Year. Seniors will be considered Leaders in Training. They will NOT attend Staff Training, but they will have their own schedule at camp. All counselors (including CITs) must have graduated high school (or equivalent) and be older than 18 years of age.

Is transportation provide?

Transportation is not provided and will be the responsibility of the camper/parent/volunteer to get to camp on time and pick up their camper on time.

What is the application process like?

Your application is not official until it is 100% completed and submitted. Starting the application does not reserve a spot for your camper.

All volunteers must fill out an application. The Epilepsy Foundation Executive Director will reach out to schedule an interview. After interviews, you will learn if you’ve been accepted and to what position.

How much does it cost?

Thanks to the generosity of donors and fundraising events supporting the Epilepsy Foundation – Arizona, we are able to offer camp $35 per camper. (There is NO FEE to volunteer) If you are unable to pay that amount, please reach out to Allie Anderson at aanderson@efa.org and we can chat about options.

Who is on Staff?

All our camp volunteers go through training and a background check. Many have been volunteering with the Epilepsy Foundation for years! For medical staff we partner with Phoenix Children’s Hospital and local epilepsy centers to provide nurses, doctors, epileptologists, and medical assistants to provide the best medical care for your children!

After accepting your volunteer position, volunteers will be asked to complete online training through the American Camping Association, become certified in Seizure Recognition & First Aid, and complete a background check. All volunteers are asked to arrive to camp the day before for special volunteer training.

For more questions - contact Allie Anderson at aanderson@efa.org

The Arizona Department of Education hosted a webinar: Implementing SB 1654: How Schools Can Successfully Meet the Law's Requirements and Establish Seizure Action Plans at Their School. During the session, participants received information about the law, and details for complying with the law. In addition, participants were informed about training requirements, and participated in a Q&A. The recording and slides are now available!

You can Access the Recording HERE.

Passcode: TbhB!q3x

The Amber Sweeny Scholarship Fund 2023

Amber Sweeney was a vibrant young woman whose life was cut far too short by Epilepsy. She was diagnosed at ten months with Epilepsy. She lived with a huge secret, EPILEPSY. Amber called it the invisible disease, often saying "you look healthy until the seizure happens". She knew all too well the struggles of living with her condition. She showed great inner strength every day to overcome life's challenges. She passed 23 years ago, but her memory continues on, and it is hoped that this $500 scholarship will help others to achieve their dreams.

* To submit an application or ask questions, email Samantha Morales at stenamorales@efa.org

Scholarship Dates

• Opens on May 29, 2023
• Closes July 1, 2023
• Winner chosen August 1, 2023

Scholarship Requirements

• Proof of acceptance or enrollment in an Arizona college.
• Note from a neurologist, confirming epilepsy diagnosis.
• Two (2) letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, and/or supervisors (present or past).
• One (1) essay speaking on how epilepsy has impacted your life. (1-2 pages)