DCH - Camp Staff

“The staff was incredible! My son left that camp feeling so good about himself and with a giant boost in his self esteem/confidence. I can't thank you all enough.”

About the 2023 Camp Leadership:

About the Camp Director:

About the Teen Camp Director:

Joe McDonagh graduated from Bridgewater State University as a history major and is currently pursuing his Masters in Special Education. While at Bridgewater, Joe played for the hockey and golf teams. A graduate of Dedham High School, Joe began at DCH as an Assistant Counselor then was promoted to a Head Counselor position. He became the Assistant Camp Director in 2019 and was Camp Co-Director for summer 2021. During the school year, Joe works as a middle school math teacher. Joe is also an assistant hockey coach for the Dedham High School girls varsity hockey team.

About the Aquatics Director:

About the Program Director:

Kaitlin McCarthy joined DCH in February of 2023 as the Program Director. She has been working in camping for 12 years and has a strong background in program planning and management from working for the YMCA in the after school, preschool, and summer camp programs. Additionally, she has a background teaching swim lessons and lifeguarding for a private swim school. Kaitlin graduated from Champlain College with a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and enjoys working with youth in non-traditional education settings. Outside of work, Kaitlin is an avid skier and enjoys anything in or on the water, especially on hot summer days!

Camp Staff Qualifications and Certifications:

All members of the Dedham Community House Summer Camp staff must pass the Massachusetts CORI and SORI systems prior to working at DCH. In addition all DCH Head Counselors and most Assistant Counselors and Activity Specialists are First Aid and CPR certified.

Camp Health Care Supervisor:

The DCH Summer Camp, as required by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, has a designated staff person serve as Health Care Supervisor. A member of the camp leadership fills this position as part of their job responsibilities. Beyond the on-site Health Care Supervisor, DCH works with a local doctor each summer who serves as the Camp Health Care Consultant.