What a Week at Camp WSA Taught Me About Community, Connection, and What Really Matters

As a Realtor®, property manager, business owner, and mom, my days are usually filled with contracts, phone calls, property showings, vacation rentals, and helping clients navigate some of life's biggest decisions. But recently, I stepped away from the busy pace of work to spend a week serving as a volunteer camp counselor at Camp WSA at Twin Lakes Camp & Conference Center in Rutledge, Georgia.

I expected to spend the week helping others.

Instead, I came home feeling like I was the one who had been changed.

A Special Place for Individuals with Williams Syndrome

Camp WSA is a summer camp designed specifically for individuals with Williams Syndrome, such as my daughter, Jacey. Williams Syndrome is a rare genetic condition known for its unique combination of challenges, remarkable resilience, and extraordinary social and emotional strengths.

For one week, campers from across the country gathered to enjoy swimming, music, games, outdoor adventures, talent shows, friendship, and countless opportunities to simply be themselves in an environment built on acceptance and encouragement.

As a volunteer counselor, I had the privilege of witnessing moments that were both joyful and deeply moving. Every day brought new opportunities to celebrate successes, build confidence, encourage independence, and create meaningful connections.

The experience was a powerful reminder that every individual deserves to be seen, valued, and included.

The Lessons the Campers Taught Me

Many people assume volunteers are the ones doing the teaching.

The truth is that the campers taught me far more than I could ever teach them.

They reminded me to celebrate small victories, to laugh without hesitation, to meet new people without judgment. to be fully present in the moment.

In a world that often feels rushed and divided, these campers demonstrated what genuine kindness, acceptance, and friendship look like.

Every conversation, every high-five, every dance party, every song, and every shared laugh carried a lesson about what truly matters.

Why Community Matters

One of the reasons I love living and working in the Lake Anna community is because of the relationships that make this area so special.

Whether I'm helping a family find their dream waterfront home, assisting an investor with a Lake Anna vacation rental, managing a property for an owner, or volunteering for a cause close to my heart, it all comes back to people.

Real estate is often thought of as buying and selling homes, but at its core, it is about community. It's about helping families create memories. It's about building connections.

It's about finding places where people feel they belong.

Camp WSA reinforced those same values in a beautiful and unforgettable way.

Inspired by Families Who Show Incredible Strength

Throughout the week, I had the opportunity to meet families from across the country whose lives have been touched by Williams Syndrome.

I witnessed parents supporting one another, volunteers dedicating countless hours of their time, and campers encouraging their friends with enthusiasm and compassion.

The strength, resilience, and optimism of these families left a lasting impression on me.

As someone who has become involved in the Williams Syndrome community through my daughter Jacey, I have seen firsthand the importance of creating opportunities for inclusion, friendship, and personal growth. Camp WSA provides exactly that.

The impact extends far beyond a single week. The confidence gained, friendships formed, and memories created continue long after campers return home.

Returning Home with a New Perspective

When I returned home, I brought back more than just memories. I returned with renewed gratitude. Gratitude for family. Gratitude for community. Gratitude for the opportunity to serve. And gratitude for the reminder that success is not measured solely by accomplishments, titles, or business growth. Success is measured by the positive impact we have on the lives of others.

Whether through volunteer work, community involvement, helping a family find a home, or simply taking time to encourage someone who needs it, every act of kindness matters.

Thank You, Camp WSA

To the campers, families, volunteers, medical staff, organizers, and supporters who make Camp WSA possible each year: thank you. Thank you for your trust.

Thank you for your dedication. Thank you for creating a place where every camper is celebrated for exactly who they are. And thank you for reminding all of us that joy, friendship, compassion, and community are among life's greatest gifts.

I am honored to have been part of this experience and look forward to returning in the future.

About Kristie Cooke

Kristie Cooke is a Realtor®, Real Estate & Investment Specialist, and owner of Lake Anna Property Management and Lake To County Realty, serving clients throughout Lake Anna, Louisa County, Spotsylvania County, Orange County, and Central Virginia. When she's not helping clients buy, sell, invest, or manage property, she is passionate about supporting local nonprofits, community initiatives, and organizations that serve individuals with special needs and their families.